Insider 118

THE CITY MAGAZINE OF

December - January 2015 Year 13. Issue 118 € 4.50 ISSN 1790-3114

ATHENS

The Festive Issue Interviews with: Arianna Huffington, Dimitris Maris of 24MEDIA The sartorial legacy of the Evzones | Picnicking at Tatoi | Exploring Lake Plastira | Kavala, a bucket-list destination | Retro post-cards from Santorini | Christmas gift guide | Meet Market, a creative hub | Book reviews | Insider’s Guide to Greekisms Restaurant reviews: It restaurant, City Bistro, Andaman insider athens | MAPS December & AND January 2015 1 PLUS: ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD & WINE, NIGHTLIFE, SHOPPING, NOVELTIES, MORE

2 insider athens | December & January 2015

Sudha Nair-Iliades

It’s a gloriously sunny day, and my daughter enthuses, “We’re blessed to have this weather in December!” And we truly are. As the end of the year creeps up on us, we’re expected to go through the mandatory exercise of taking stock to label a year as good, bad or simply, uninteresting! Well, I think, we’re blessed to have the luxury of looking back on the tough times, of having the incredible privilege of dreaming about the future and the joy of simply being in the moment.

I do not know if this year-end sentimentality is a result of Arianna Huffington’s powerful message of being ‘gracious and grateful’ but it is humbling to know that our tiny, dynamic team at Insider has accomplished a great deal this past year, something we are delighted to share with you in 2015

publisher’s note

as well. Except, unlike Arianna’s suggestion, it has come with a lot of sleepless nights, incessant use of our mobile phones and a lot of heartburn of missing out on precious moments with friends and family.

Our balance sheet reads as follows: 18 magazines in 6 languages; a website in 5 languages with daily updates (with 3 more languages in 2015); two weekly newsletters and a weekly newspaper with the International New York-Times-Kathimerini every Friday. My personal balance-sheet probably reads as: more grey hair, 4 kilos of excess flubber, multiple breaches in composure and a niggling anxiety of whether we’re really out of the woods.

But the reason we want to do it all is because of the pleasure we still take in scouring for new information, sharing it with our audience, reveling in their positive feedback and of connecting people with each other.

Since it is all about balance, we believe this year-end issue has a bit of everything to pique your interest. Conversations with personalities, business interviews, community stories, travel escapes, book reviews, gastronomy, shopping guides, wellness and a hilarious new section on Greekisms, guaranteed to plaster a grin on your face well into the New Year!

Kales Yiortes!

Sudha Nair-Iliades

Publisher - Editor Sudha Nair - Iliades

Web Design Siteland

Art Director Michel Devanakis

Contributors in this Issue John Carr, Paul Anastasi, Isabella Zampetaki, Iason Iliades

Editorial Team Christina Michele Rios Muriel Chryssoulis Client Relations Sophia Velissaridis Web Content Royce Gavrias Photos Angelos Giotopoulos, Christos Kontsaloudis

Founder Steve Pantazopoulos Legal Counsel Christos Christopoulos Prepress and Printing Non-Stop Printing Distribution Econews

Subscriptions * Athens Insider published in English in Greece € 30, Abroad € 60 *B onjour Athènes published in French in Greece € 20, Abroad € 40 * Both magazines in Greece € 50, Abroad € 90

Insider Publications Ltd. located at Markou Botsari 16 A 117 41 Athens, Greece.

Telephone: 210.729.8634 Fax: 210.729.8634.

Tax: No. 099747145.

Email: info@insider-magazine.gr Reproduction in whole or in part, by any means whatsoever, is forbidden except with the express written permission of the publisher.

Also published in Chinese, Russian, Turkish and Arabic Prices include VAT and postage. info@insider-magazine.gr www.insider-magazine.gr www.insider-publications.com Athens Insider is published monthly and its brand, logo and all editorial content is held worldwide by:

Although Athens Insider has made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication, the publisher cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions it may contain.

Athens Insider maintains a strict policy of editorial independence and preferential treatment is never guaranteed to advertisers.

Athens Insider: Monthly Publication ISSN 1790-3114 Code: 6548

insider athens | December & January 2015 1

John Carr

Born in North Staffordshire, John Carr has a BA in history and MA in sociology from Leicester University. He has worked in Greece as a correspondent for the Associated Press, Wall Street Journal Europe, The Times of London and Vatican Radio and as broadcaster, writer and actor since 1978. He has published several books including, The America Capsule (2005),Your Eyes Fourteen (2007), On Spartan Wings (2012), Sparta’s Kings (2012), The Defence and Fall of Greece 1940-41 (2013) and RHNS Averof (2014)

As someone who likes to experience and share the uniqueness of each destination, Isabella has been a regular contributor to The Greek Star, 2Board and Qatar Airways’ Oryx magazine and tourism editor for B2B Hotel & Restaurant magazine. Her writing has been awarded by the International Food, Wine and Travel Writers’ Association.

Isabella is also a conference producer for HospitalityNext and HospitalityNow events and is part of the Greek Tourism Awards steering committee.

Michel Devanakis

Award-winning graphic designer, fluent in English, French and Greek, Michel moved to Athens in 1997 to create Studio ZIP, after a long and interesting career in France and Canada. His background in Marketing is a major asset in his creative approach and his services are sought after both in Greece and abroad. An artist in his ‘rare’ spare time, Michel is passionate about discovering obscure destinations. He is the Art Director of Athens Insider, Bonjour Athenes and Insider Weekly.

Sophia grew up in Johannesburg and studied industrial psychology at the University of South Africa (UNISA). She later moved to Greece to pursue her interest in fashion and travel. She juggled her twin careers in both industries, specializing in incoming tourism from emerging markets such as India and China. With an innate sense of style and privy to Athens’ best kept insider secrets, Sophia is a welcome addition to the Insider Publications team

Muriel Noël

Sophia Velissaridis

French by origin and a long-time Greek resident, Muriel is a trained geographer whose love for the media veered her towards a career in publishing with French lifestyle magazine VSD and Maison Française, a design magazine.

After a career that spanned several years, she moved to Athens, where she has been actively involved with the French community. Muriel splits her time between Paris and Athens and is the force behind Insider Publications’ French magazine, Bonjour Athenes, its French website and weekly newsletter.

Born to a French-Spanish father and American mother, Christina is passionate about learning about new cultures, the arts and fashion. She attended the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and worked for a number of luxury fashion brands, before relocating to Athens in 2008. She hasn’t looked back since and has been culling the best addresses to wine and dine in the city for Athens Insider and our weekly newsletter.

ROYCE GAVRIAS

Isabella Zampetaki

CHRISTINA MICHELE RIOS

Born to a Cypriot father and French-Greek mother, Royce is presently specialising in Shipping Management. Having grown up in the southern suburbs by the sea, Royce is into water-sports and you can find him surfing the waves in Vouliagmeni on most weekends. Royce manages data entries for Insider’s website, updating the latest in culture and entertainment.

2 insider athens | December & January 2015

insider athens | December & January 2015 3

12 18 26

Features Four Must Reads Page-turners for the holiday season

Sections 10

Mad Greek Dictionary 12 An Insider’s Guide to colourful Greekisms by John Carr and Paul Anastasi Yassou from Arianna 18 Arianna Huffington on her book, Greek values and digital detox Unlimited News and Views 24/7 20 Dimitris Maris, CEO of 24Media on the launch of HuffPost Greece The Story of a Fabled Naval Landmark 22 John Carr plunges into the depths of RHNS Averof’s 104 year old history Picnicking like a Royal 24 Tatoi Estate, a popular Sunday destination for many Athenians Into the Wilderness 26 A closer look at the beautiful landscape around Lake Plastira and Meteora Behind the Seams 30 A peak under the fustanellas and elaborate uniforms worn by the Evzones

Thinking Outside the Box Alison Damianos shares her favourite Athenian haunts and outlook on Greece

34

Retro Postcards 36 Dimitris Tsitouras’ coffee table book on vintage Santorini postcards Kavala, a Bucket list Destination 38 The must see’s and do’s in this northern town Sassy Stocking Stuffers An eclectic selection of groovy Christmas gifts for the whole family Of tooth fairies and magician-dentists A unique approach to childdentistry

42

46

Redefining Raw Food An interview with Chef Nikos Zervos of City Bistro

48

The Spice of Life Insider reviews Thai eatery Andaman in Ano Petralona

50

Arts & Events

06

Books

10

Fast Lane

12

Interview 18 Business

20

City Escapes

24

City Life

30

My Athens

34

History

36

Travel

38

Shopping

42

Health

46

Restaurants

48

Kaleidoscope

72

The It place to be 52 Introducing IT restaurant, the new it place in town

30 36 38 42 48 Cover illustrations:

by Michel Devanakis

4 insider athens | December & January 2015

insider athens | December & January 2015 5

23 december

2830 11 until

december

january

11

until

january

Onassis Cultural Centre

Onassis Cultural Centre

Benaki Museum

Benaki Museum

Camerata: Christmas in the Paris of the Sun King The Camerata, which performs regularly at the Versailles Royal Opera, is joined by a cast of outstanding soloists and the Athens City Choir teaming up for a beautiful Christmas classical music experience in the spirit of the Sun King. For French Baroque period enthusiasts, this event will delight.

20:30 Main Stage, Leoforos Syggrou 107-109, 213.017.8000, sgt.gr

Azimut, Aurelien Bory & Le groupe acrobatique de Tanger An acrobatic performance which explores the search for our spiritual path, inspired by Sidi Ahmed Ou Moussa, a great Sufi teacher from the 16th century.

This performance transforms the stage into an artistic backdrop, combining spiritual illusions to Sufism, scenes of contemporary Morocco, poetry, magic and gravity defying acrobatics.

20:30 Mainstage, Leoforos Syggrou 107-109, 213.017.8000, sgt.gr

Pavlos Samios, Painting Apology An exhibition of Pavlos Samios’ works including 180 works of art that belong to private collectors and a book dedicated to Pavlos Samios’ work presenting the artist’s work in sections, according to theme as well as essays written by distinguished historians and critics reviewing the artist’s work.

Pireos St. Annexe, Pireos 138, 210.345.3111, benaki.gr

Depression Era A thought provoking group exhibition inspired by the Greek crisis, featuring Athenian artists, researchers, writers, architects, journalists and theoreticians’ take on the political, ideological, ethical and aesthetic issues facing Greece.

Pireos St. Annexe, Pireos 138, 210.345.3111, benaki.gr

6 insider athens | December & January 2015

insider athens | December & January 2015 7

18

until

until

january

01 march

31 0314

until

may

december

january

Acropolis Museum

Benaki Museum

Atopos Unlocked

Cycladic Museum

Quadriga from the Collection of Theophil Hansen An exhibition of beautiful Acropolis sculptures from the Hellenic Renaissance period including the quadriga with the goddess Nike from Theophil Hansen’s collection, a great architect of neoclassical buildings in Greece and central Europe in the 19th century.

Dionysiou Areopagitou 15, 210.900.0900, benaki.gr

Domenikos Theotokopoulos between Venice and Rome A collection of Domenikos Theotokopoulos’ paintings from his Italian period, including The Baptism of Christ, View of Mt Sinai and the Monastery of St Catherine. El Greco’s painting, A Boy Blowing a Candle, will also be on display for the first time ever in Greece. Paintings, engravings and manuscripts will take you on an artistic journey of postRenaissance Italy.

Pireos St. Annexe, Pireos 138, 210.345.3111, benaki.gr

Occupy Atopos #CloeFloirat Atopos Unlocked continues with the French Clo’e Floirat, as part of the Occupy Atopos residency project. An art critic and artist, she combines drawing and writing, critiquing contemporary art events and current affairs in her own distinctive manner. She depicts the naked human body and how it is captured by the new generation of social media artists. Opening: Wednesday December 3rd, 2014 from 20:00-23:00 (the artist will be present).

Exhibition days & hours: December 10 & 17, January 7 and 14 from 14:00-22:00 72 Salaminos, Metaxourgeio 210.524.2004, atopos.gr

Hygieia. Health, Illness, Treatment from Homer to Galen A tour from 1200 BC to the 3rd century AD of the evolution of ancient healing practices, examining the transition from magic-religious healing to rational, scientific medicine including three thematic sections: Health, Illness and Treatment and over 300 ancient artifacts.

Neophytou Douka 4, 210.722.8321, cycladic.gr

8 insider athens | December & January 2015

insider athens | December & January 2015 9

To rise again at a decent hour

We are all completely beside ourselves

An Event in Autumn: A Kurt Wallander Mystery

Joshua Ferris Penguin, 338 pages, 16.60 € National Book Award Finalist 2014

Karen Joy Fowler Profile Books, 323 pages, 10.20€ Shortlisted for the Man Booker Prize 2014

Henning Mankell Vintage, 176 pages, 11.70€

Paul O’Rourke is a NY dentist, addicted to his iPhone, an atheist not quite willing to let go of God, avowed atheist, a man out of touch with modern life.

Then, someone begins to impersonate Paul: a website, a Facebook page, and a Twitter account are created in his name! Soon, what is an outrageous violation of privacy becomes something far more soul-frightening: the possibility that the virtual “Paul” might actually be a better version of the man in the flesh.

“In the phrase human being, the word being is much more important than the word human.”

“To Rise Again at a Decent Hour is beautifully written. It’s also funny, thought-provoking, and touching. One hesitates to call it the “Catch-22” of dentistry, but it’s sort of in that ballpark. Some books simply carry you along on the strength and energy of the author’s invention and unique view of the world. This is one of those books.” Stephen King

After nearly thirty years in the same job, Inspector Kurt Wallander is restless and itching to make a change. He moves into a Rosemary’s young, just at college, new house but there, he makes doesn’t talk much and remains an upsetting discovery: he finds silent about certain things. So the skeletal hand of a corpse we’re not going to tell you too in a shallow grave. Wallander’s much either: you’ll have to find investigation takes him deep into out for yourselves, round about the history of the house and the page 77, what it is that makes her land, until finally the shocking unhappy family unlike any other. truth about a long-buried secret Rosemary is the child who stayed, is brought to light.

Lowell is her brother who went and Fern was her sister the same An Inspector Kurt Wallander short novel by the bestselling author age as her, who was taken away.

Henning Mankell, available in She’s telling her unsettling and English for the first time. emotionally gripping story, with “[Mankell’s] Swedish detective, wry humour leading you into a Inspector Kurt Wallander, is one quite original novel plot twist. of the most impressive creations This novel has fostered plenty of in crime fiction today. An olddebate among readers. A reason fashioned moral force and sense of more to give it all the attention it disquiet of the sort rarely found in deserves. contemporary crime fiction.”

The Guardian A well-paced introspective crime novel.

And if anything else, you’ll want to floss more…!

Books recommended by bookstore Lexikopoleio. lexikopoleio.com

10 insider athens | December & January 2015

De Potter’s Grand Tour Joanna Scott Farrar, Straus and Giroux, 272 pages, 21.20€

In 1905, a tourist agent and amateur antiques collector named Armand de Potter mysteriously disappeared off the coast of Greece. His body is never recovered and his wife is left to manage his affairs on her own.

But as she starts to piece together his life, she realizes that everything was not as he had said.

A detective novel full of secrets and surprises, set in the Gilded Age, and based also on Scott’s great-grandfather, Armand de Potter. Drawing on real letters, legal documents and diaries, Joanna Scott writes both a beautifully melancholic love story and a thrilling tale of adventures.

“Scott’s prose is sensitive and beautifully crafted. Her characters are both eminently human and touched with magic and mystery.”

The Washington Post Book World A light, simple, short novel, recommended to fans of Jules Verne and Agatha Christie.

Book Nook

T

Z

insider athens | December & January 2015 11

Mad Greek Dictionary

Tοπ

John Carr and Paul Anastasi, Athens-based foreign news correspondents, follow up on their original Mad Greek Dictionary, Your Eyes Fourteen, with a rib-ticklingly funny guide to learning Greek through its quirky idioms - The Insider’s Guide to Greekisms. Illustrations by Iason Iliades.

T

his book, published by Insider Publications (out in spring 2015), offers a glimpse into the colourful world of modern Greek idiolects, a form of linguistic communication indigenous to any given nation that employs vivid figurative language to illustrate its point.

Greek is especially rich in idiolectic expressions. Some of these expressions may seem crude to the genteel eye and ear, even verboten in a politically correct sense. But the Greeks have never been, and never will be, Puritan Protestants. In their vernacular the risqué and the divine often intermingle, sometimes with startling results.

The expressions are divided into seven broad categories according to their main subject: people and human relations; body parts and sex; animals, plants and food; weather and nature; life experiences; historical memory; and the other world. Insider will carry excerpts from the book throughout 2015. Here is Part 1 in a series of 7.

Chapter 1: People and human relations

Are you from the Deaf Islands? (Απ’τα Κουφονησια εισαι;) (Ap’ta Koufonisia eisai?) are you deaf or something?

The Deaf Islands – Koufonisia – are a couple of rocky specks in the north Cyclades, idyllic destinations for those who wish to shun the mass tourism plague. Only one of them is inhabited, and in recent years it has become something of a cult among the cognoscenti, hence the entry into youthspeak. The origin of the name is obscure, though “deaf” (koufo) can also mean difficult or barren. There is no evidence that the actual Deaf Islanders are any harder of hearing than anyone else.

Biting the sheet metal (Δαγκώνω τη λαμαρίνα) (Dhangono ti lamarina) falling in love In a society where the excesses of romantic love have traditionally been regarded with a jaundiced eye, the image is apposite. Being totally besotted with someone is equated to being mentally ill. Sheet metal is perhaps the only material that would stand up to a frenzied gnashing of teeth. The phrase, by the way, is used almost entirely for men as presumably more prone to losing their wits in a romantic situation than women are.

Having them 400 (Τα ‘χω τετρακόσια) (Ta’kho tetrakosia) being alert and intelligent The Greeks’ use of the concept “many” tends to be expressed in multiplies of ten and four (see Forty waves). The figure most likely derives from the forty days which the Orthodox Church decrees for fasting and mourning. Four hundred is forty multiplied by ten, thus a greater emphasis on quantity or degree. A very clever person, then, could be conceptualized as “having four hundred” thoughts at once.

Playing it two doors (Το παίζω δίπορτο) (To paizo dhiporto) keeping one’s options open; playing both sides of the field Thanks partly to their peril-filled history, the Greeks even today prefer to avoid taking definite stands on whatever has an uncertain outcome.

There’s always the risk of ending up on the wrong or losing side. Thus, it’s better to have a second “door” available if the first one slams shut.

To see your knickers Becoming billiard balls (Γιναμε μπιλλιες) (Giname billies) having an argument Being expressly made to be knocked against one another, billiard balls are a fitting simile for two or more people at loggerheads.

12 insider athens | December & January 2015

(Να δω τα βρακιά σου)Na dho ta vrakia sou) see if you’re as brave as you think you are One of the possible results of extreme fear is the soiling of the underwear. Another truism is that many boastful people are basically cowards. Thus, according to earthy peasant logic, the state of one’s underwear would be an effective sign of that person’s courage (or lack thereof) when asked to prove it. i

insider athens | December & January 2015 13

Fragrant Scentre

Too many Cooks…. stir up a feast!

Cookoovaya, the swanky restaurant just across the Hilton has just opened its doors promising Athenians wise cuisine. While conventional wisdom suggests otherwise, five chefs including the young Michelin star chef Nikos Karathanos (formerly from Hytra) along with Pericles Koskina (ex-chef at Alatsi), Spyros and Vangelis Liakou (from Base Grill and Travolta respectively) and Manos Zourantzi (ex-chef from Cucina Povera) stir in their collective talent to wow us with their signature dishes. Watch this space for a restaurant review in our next issue.

Hatziyianni Mexi 2A, 210.723.5005

Spread the Christmas cheer Technopolis transforms itself into a magical Christmas wonderland complete with 500 decorated pine trees, a theme park run by elves, fairies and goblins who aim to spread Christmas cheer! A terrific way to enjoy the festive season with the family. Take part in events, activities, educational workshops, arts, crafts; enjoy the tasty goodies at the Sweet Factory, the toys at the Toy Factory, skate at the Ice Rink, spin on the Carousel, ride on the Train, hop on the Slide and take photos with Santa himself! The perfect way to join in the Christmas spirit.

14 insider athens | December & January 2015

Look no further to declare your love in a bottle than KG Perfumes and More, a pop-up store dedicated to the art of aroma in the scentre of Athens, wedged between Hotel Grande Bretagne and Hotel King George. Done up in passionate red, the boutique stocks the exclusive Il Profvmo, Amouage and Etat Libre d’Orange fragrances and Valmont and ESPA home-spa products. This fragrant project is part of a new retail phenomenon called Niche Perfumery and is the happy outcome of a successful collaboration between the Hotel Grande Bretagne and Orloff Spa, representatives of the brands in Greece. KG Perfumes and More, Hotel King George, Tel: 210.322.2210, hotelkinggeorge.com

On a Wing and a Prayer Well worth a flying visit to Nafplio where Christina Darras’ exhibition, ‘Little Birds of Hope’ will run until January 11 at Fougaro, as part of its first Craft Fair. The exhibition includes works painted in pencil, watercolour, oil and mixed media, objects and masks from papier-mâché, glass jewellery and scarves. “The birds are symbols of hope: So beautiful, so light and so vulnerable, hope is nothing else but our irrational belief that all will be well.” The ArtShop, Fougaro, Nafplio. Tel: 27520.47301, theartshop.gr

insider athens | December & January 2015 15

101 reasons to celebrate!

The Hotel Grande Bretagne has several reasons to celebrate this season: First, the GB Roof Garden restaurant was the only restaurant from Greece to be included in US website The Daily Meal’s 101 best hotel restaurants of the world. A tribute to the restaurant’s stunning locale and Chef de cuisine Asterios Koustoudis’ creative menu. Second, expert bartenders at Alexander’s Bar now concoct a personalised cigar-cocktail that pairs perfectly with your cigar.

And third, the GB now adds shopping to the list of hedonistic experiences at the hotel. Stock up on Christmas goodies, Greek gourmet foods, exclusive spa and beauty products and home deco objects at the GB’s Christmas store at the GB Corner.

Hotel Grande Bretagne, Tel: 210.333.0000, hotelgrandebretagne.com

A dose of Greek wisdom and generosity While her sister Arianna Huffington was in town for the launch of HuffPost Greece, Agapi Stassinopoulos was busy launching her book too. Unbinding the Heart published by Hay House internationally and by Fereniki in Greece is the remarkable account of how Agapi Stasinopoulou overcame adversities several times over – from working hard to get enrolled into the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts in London to becoming a member of the Young Vic only to go through the pain and humiliation of a string of audition failures in Broadway and Hollywood. It was after yet another stinging rejection, on a bus ride, that she found her inner spark. “I was so devastated that I performed a Joan of Arc monologue. The whole bus lit up and the lady next to me said, ‘Girl, go do your own thing.’ That moment changed my life. But I didn’t know what my thing was.” As it were, it happened to be a one-woman show on seven Greek goddesses.

That little show was invited to perform at the Getty Museum; a book, Conversations with the Goddesses and Gods followed which became a PBS special. A second book, Goddesses in Love ensued.

An inspiring teacher, she was soon sought after to conduct seminars to empower men and women to recognize their individual gifts and create the lives they want. “It is something I look forward to doing in Greece in 2015.” Quite clearly, the influence of the women in her family is evident: her mother Elli is described as ‘fearless and incredibly caring and authentic,’ her sister Arianna crops up regularly in her conversations as a resilient tour-de-force and her book is dedicated to her two nieces, Isabella and Christina.

Unbindingtheheart.com

16 insider athens | December & January 2015

Agapi Stassinopoulos (left) with her sister Arianna Huffington (right)

insider athens | December & January 2015 17

In Athens to launch HuffPost Greece and her book Thrive, Arianna Huffington described it as ‘the ultimate homecoming, because this is where I and my accent were born.’ She might be the media power-house that she is, but her twitter account describes her as a mother, sister, sleep evangelist and flat shoe advocate – and that is how she comes across. Add digital-detox campaigner, motivational public-speaker and woman you’d most like to emulate to the list. In conversation with Sudha Nair-Iliades.

A

rianna Huffington is a couple of hours late for our interview, only because Prime Minister Antonis Samaras has insisted on lunching with her. But then, that is to be expected of someone whom President Obama exchanges tweets with regularly and for whom the Chancellor of the Exchequer throws open his Downing Street residence for her book launch in London. She walks in, not a strand out of place, and dives right into the interview.

BEING ARIANNA What are your early reflections of your childhood in Greece?

Growing up, my favorite poem was ‘Ithaca’ by the Greek poet Constantine Cavafy. My sister, Agapi and I had memorized the poem long before we could actually understand what it meant. It opens, “As you set out for Ithaca hope the voyage is a long one, full of adventure, full of discovery.” And so it has been. After my parents broke up when I was 11, I lived with my mother and my sister in a one-bedroom apartment in Athens. My mother was amazingly committed to making sure that my sister and I had the best childhood possible. And, of course, she was always cooking, clearly believing that if you didn’t eat something every 20 minutes, something terrible would happen to you. She would always say to me, “Your education will be your dowry.”

And to make that happen, she sold everything she had, including her last pair of gold earrings. That started me on a journey: college at Cambridge, a career as an author, marriage, motherhood, divorce,

18 insider athens | December & January 2015

launching HuffPost. But Greece is where my story began.

What are the things that strike you most, now that you are revisiting Greece?

The thing about Greece is just how easy it is to make connections with people here, how easy it is to meet a stranger and feel like they’re a friend, that’s the special Greek gift. Greeks invented the notion of ‘philoxenia’ and don’t make the same kind of distinctions between friends and strangers. And that’s just a great way, a rich way to live life.

You’ve done it all. What next? Is it politics?

No. Not politics. It is a combination of the Huffington Post and getting the word out for Thrive. I feel very strongly about speaking and writing about the message of Thrive.

Do you feel that your book now compels you to behave a certain way – because people now expect it of you?

The older I get, the more important it is for me to be at peace with myself rather than to have to look over my shoulder or have to see what people think of me, I wish I knew that when I was younger because at the end that’s all that matters. You know people will have their own opinion, but if we live our lives worrying about that then we are not living our own lives!

What would you have done differently?

I would have done lots of things differently - slept more, worried less, judged myself less critically…

In Good Company 4OF

“G

reeks invented the notion of ‘philoxenia’ and don’t make the same kind of distinctions between friends and strangers. And that’s just a great way, a rich way to

live life.”

ABOUT THRIVE What is the underlying philosophy of Thrive?

Thrive is very much based on our Greek philosophy. At the heart of Thrive is the question that philosophers addressed: ‘what is a good life’, which today has been reduced to success, and success has been further reduced down to, two metrics, money and power. That is like trying to sit on a two legged stool, sooner or later you topple over. So Thrive is about that third metric of a full life that the Greeks called eudemonia, not just epitixia. Eudemonia has much more depth, much more fulfilment and meaning; it’s an amazing word that we Greeks, like so much else, came up with, and which I translated as thriving. A third measure of success that goes beyond the two metrics of money and power, and consists of four pillars: well-being, wisdom, wonder, and giving.

You refer to the Greek spirit and Greek values a lot. What is it that you cherish most about them?

Greeks have never felt limited by their circumstances. We’ve always been a small country and yet, we always did things way beyond our size. That’s after all the whole sprit of Zorbas the Greek too. And family: it’s kind of amusing when the Americans complain, that their children have to go back home after college because of tougher times.

You know people in the US always ask, ‘are you supporting your family?’ Nobody ever asks that in Greece. You just know that if you have any money, you will support your family!

Young Greeks are anxious of their future. What would your message to them be?

I would say that the key here, whether you are incredibly successful or struggling to put food on the table, is to tap into your place of inner strength, resilience, peace and wisdom. The more challenging our lives, the more imperative it is to tap into it because when we do, we’re going to find the solutions. They may not be obvious and they

may require challenging choices along the way, but what matters is to see the hidden blessing in these challenges.

Your top three career advice tips?

1. Don’t be afraid to fail. 2. Redefine success on your terms 3. And finally, stay connected to the essence of who you are.

You are an advocate of sleeping more and switching off gadgets more often…

Unfortunately our hyper connectivity to technology has made it harder for us to connect with ourselves and the world around us, so we miss out on what is happening in the moment. I was recently walking down the streets of New York, where nobody now walks without talking on the phones or texting while walking, and I wasn’t doing it anymore and I looked up and I saw a beautiful building and I said to a friend that was with me, ‘Look, this building is so beautiful, when did it go up?’ and she said, ‘1890!’ So what else are we missing out in life?

In fact, we take better care of our smart phones then we take care of ourselves. You know exactly how much battery remains in your smart phone, you get alerts and you rush around anxious to find a charger.

When I collapsed - the book starts with my collapse from exhaustion and burn out 7 years ago, I wasn’t even aware of how burnt out I was.

ON HUFFPOST GREECE What does bringing HuffPost to Greece mean to you?

It is the ultimate homecoming because HuffPost is very firmly rooted in a Greek tradition of bringing people together and facilitating interesting conversations. When we began our international expansion more than three years ago, I knew that one day HuffPost’s own odyssey would lead us to Greece. And I couldn’t be happier that that day has finally come. Launching HuffPost in Greece is, in many ways, about coming full circle. My father was a serial journalism entrepreneur who launched a succession of small newspaper ventures - all of which failed. (It’s no accident HuffPost is not in print!).

So is there a future for print?

Definitely there is a future for print - there is no question about it, there is something in our DNA that likes to pick up a magazine, turn the pages and pass it around and say, “look what they have.”But if you want mass appeal, then it’s obviously much easier to do it digitally. i

insider athens | December & January 2015 19

Dimitris Maris, Founder and Chairman of 24MEDIA shares his views with Sudha Nair-Iliades on the state of play in the digital media and entertainment market, just ahead of his company’s latest venture - the launch of Huffington Post Greece

I

n his minimalist, elegantly appointed office in Pangrati, Dimitris Maris purveys his empire, 24MEDIA, the largest and fastestgrowing digital media group in Greece with 20 premium brands covering all media categories. I am at his office a month before the much-anticipated launch of Huffington Post in Greece in partnership with 24MEDIA. The media interest in the project is acute as Arianna Huffington is Greek, a poster child for Greek entrepreneurship and drive, but also because of the sheer clout her global media brand enjoys.

A large sawing machine dating back to the ‘50s dominates the office – a tribute to his grandfather who was a craftsman, Mr. Maris explains. An architectural engineer who studied at Drexel and then completed his Masters at University College of London, Mr. Maris ventured into new media and technology around ten years ago, with the launch of 24MEDIA. “I was used to the internet playing a major role in media consumption abroad so when I returned to Greece, I wanted to explore the logistics of creating a digital media company that offered seamless information and entertainment. It took a lot of perseverance - the delay in internet penetration in Greece combined with the financial crisis were real challenges - but we were quick to adapt. And we are now ready to launch into the future with even more momentum.”

With 6.7 million unique browsers monthly and 2.2 million social media followers, 24MEDIA has grown organically over the past decade. “Since the beginning, we tried to establish strong relationships with international media. We pursued international partnerships and exclusive media representation deals in Greece with global players such as the NBA, Euroleague, Dailymotion, My Space and now, Huffington Post.”

As the largest, independently-operated online media network in Greece, Mr. Maris perceives 24MEDIA’s role as market leader to be the one driving the agenda and

20 insider athens | December & January 2015

Business

“O

ur mission is to develop diverse media solutions that are relevant to our users, set the standard for quality in the market, and leverage cutting-edge technologies.”

raising industry standards. Recognising that for his company to be truly sustainable and profitable, it would have to pull the rest of the industry upwards with it, he explains, “Our mission is to develop diverse media solutions that are relevant to our users, set the standard for quality in the market, and leverage cutting-edge technologies.”

Towards that end, 24MEDIA took the initiative of establishing ENED (the Greek Online Publishers’ Association), an industry-wide effort to enforce transparency in audience measuring by selecting an internationally recognised, high-performing solution provider to audit its sites. Similarly, defining how the advertising market should operate has also been one of 24MEDIA’s priorities. 24MEDIA is on the board of IAB Hellas (the International Advertising Bureau), an online advertising trade association with ad agencies, media shops, creative agencies, service providers, site and media owners and operators, network representatives, research agencies and advertisers as its members.

“Nevertheless, there is a lot more to be done”, Mr. Maris asserts.

“There are still a lot of open issues that present exciting opportunities but also potential hazards. We need to grow the market to grow the business. It is not the share of the market that we are interested in but the size of the pie.”

So what does the partnership with Huffington Post mean for 24MEDIA? “This partnership signals a few firsts: It is the first time that an American media company, and one as prestigious as AOL comes to Greece. It is the first time that the Huffington Post has gone to the market and chosen a digital player - so that is a challenge and an honour for us. More so, because we were not chosen by accident but thanks to the position 24MEDIA enjoys in the market.”

The deal itself has been 3 years in the making and entered the final stages of fine-tuning a year and a half ago. Huffington Post Greece launched on November 20, backed by Ms. Marianna Latsis, Mr. Petros Pappas, Ms. Eugenia Chandris and Mr. Dimitris Maris.

For Mr. Maris, the partnership allows premium Greek content to reach multiple markets. “Huffington Post Greece leverages the reach of a truly unique and highly innovative global media brand, daily embedding and exporting Greek news reports to the world, thus combining news updates with posts of readers’ thoughts and opinions with impartiality at the core. This has never been done before in the Greek media landscape.”

He elaborates, “24MEDIA hopes to complement The Huffington Post’s hybrid approach of original reporting and inclusive blog platform to tell the stories that matter in words, pictures and videos by using our know-how and experience.”

Huffington Post Greece is the third international edition to be announced in the past month, with Huffington Post India slated to debut later this year and Huffington Post Arabic in January 2015.

Mr. Maris’ partners echo his sentiments and issued a statement declaring, “We believe that the digital economy is now – and will be even more in the future – one of the major pillars of the development of the economy and entrepreneurial initiatives in Greece. We wish to actively support investments toward that direction and without a doubt, Huffington Post Greece is an excellent example of an innovative business venture and proof of the extroversion our country should have in the future.”

The company recently announced the editorial team at Huffington Post Greece with Sophia Papaioannou as the Editorial Director, Nikos Agouros as Εditor in Chief and Pavlos Tsimas, a revered political journalist as Contributing Editor.

As Mr. Maris peers over his window overlooking the bustling Spyrou Mercouri street, he muses, “We’ll soon have to move to more spacious offices.” One thing is for clear: at the pace at which 24MEDIA is expanding its activities, it will definitely need more leg room to spread its wings. i

insider athens | December & January 2015 21

Book Nook

T

Z

The story of a fabled

naval landmark John Carr digresses from his usual literary pursuits to plunge into the depths of the extraordinary RHNS AVEROF, the legendary 104-year old warship that has been witness to war and peace and now serves as a floating naval museum at Marina Flisvos

T

he long grey hulk was oddly out of place among the fishing caiques and white-painted passenger ships jostling for space in the narrows of Poros. I first saw it when I was thirteen years old, on my first Greek island holiday, stuck to the port rail of the gentle Neraida as it scudded over those waves that seemed too blue to be true towards the cluster of white houses topped by a clock tower.

It was obviously an old warship of some sort. But it didn’t exactly look as if it was on anyone’s must-see list. It was the era of the first sunburst of Greek tourism, when the Greek islands were reinventing themselves as havens of love and peace. The Cuban missile crisis of 1962 had just left the world’s nerves in tatters. So what was that grey remnant of past conflicts doing here? Being thirteen, I gave the matter no more thought.

That forgotten hulk was the decommissioned Georgios Averoff, a ship which in 1913 almost by itself won the First Balkan War. It had been towed to Poros in 1957 by the Greek Admiralty which had no more use for it but in view of its grand history couldn’t bring itself to send it to the breakers – a signal instance of proverbial Greek dilatoriness having a good result rather than a bad one. In years to come I made several other holiday trips to the Saronic islands. The patient old Averof, moored at the Greek Navy Petty Officers’ College of Poros, became as familiar and unremarkable as the hills looming behind it.

Fast forward to the 1980s, when as a news correspondent in Athens, my ears perked up at the news that the Averof would be taken to Piraeus to be refurbished as a floating naval museum. My first thought, oddly enough, was for the folks on Poros who would suddenly be deprived of not only a landmark, but also a friend. The ship had been a part of the very scenery of the island for twenty-seven years. But progress, as Erich Fromm declared, is progress, and we shouldn’t remain stuck in the womb of the past. When “Uncle George” (as the old tub’s crews affectionately called it) was moored at Piraeus in June 1984, it had 60,000 eager visitors in a single week.

I am not a ship person. The sea and I regard each other with a certain deep-seated suspicion. I can’t tell a yardarm from a swabbed deck.

Yet something about that ship (technically an armoured cruiser, not

22 insider athens | December & January 2015

a battleship as it is often mistakenly called) – its pre-World War One lines, the majesty of its solid hull, those great guns, silent for ever but still sticking out – moved me. It was an image of pride and defiance in the face of the elements, of time itself.

As I am by no means a warship expert, it was with some trepidation that I suggested a book about the Averof to Pen and Sword Books, my UK military history publisher. After assessing that there was an unfilled gap in the naval nerd market for modern Greek subjects, they sent me the contract. Even so, RHNS Averof (the RHNS means Royal Hellenic Navy Ship) may well have remained unwritten had it not been for the priceless research help of several sea-minded individuals, chief among whom is Dimitris Pitellos, a shipping executive in Piraeus who unearthed material that enabled me to tell the gripping story of the men who served the Averof in war and peace for the 104 years it has been afloat.

Yet one issue remains undecided. Ships are conventionally referred to as “she.” But I could not in all conscience inflict that indignity on grizzled old Georgios Averof, who therefore joins the Bismarck and other fabled warships in keeping a rugged masculinity. Happy reading.

John Carr is the author of RHNS Averof, ISBN-13: 9781783030217, published by Pen & Sword Books Limited. i

insider athens | November & December 2014 23

Once the summer palace of the Greek royal family, Tatoi Estate is now a popular Sunday destination for many Athenians

S

et on the southeastern slopes of Mt.Parnitha, Tatoi Estate is a huge complex of early 19th century buildings, but also boasts vineyards, olive groves and thousands of acres of great natural beauty. On any sunny Sunday, families equipped with bicycles, strollers and picnic baskets visit the estate to play, relax and explore its abandoned buildings.

the horse stables and cowsheds, where royal carriages and vehicles, including three Rolls Royce cars, are now locked up. In the wider area, you can look for the estate manager’s house, a winery, a hotel built to welcome royal guests, a building for the officers of the Royal Guard and several workers’ cottages.

Even though entry to the Tatoi Estate is allowed, its main gate remains locked. This means that you will have to make your way in through a big hole in the chain-wire fence. Things could be more straightforward, but the beauty of the estate is worth this inconvenience.

The royal villa and gardens

Remnants of a lively farming community Once past the beautiful guardhouse at the main gate, stroll down the cypress-lined road towards the area known as “the great field.” There, a number of buildings await to be explored. Emblematic among them is the cottage that once housed the estate’s dairyfarm that looks as if straight out of a fairytale. The high quality butter produced here made it the preferred choice of the finest hotels then, including the prestigious Hotel Grande Bretagne. Near the dairy you will find

24 insider athens | December & January 2015

If you are willing to walk a bit further, you can also explore the royal villa. Its original version was built by Ernst Ziller who described his creation as being “Greek-Swiss” in style. The villa was rebuilt in 1884, this time in imitation of one of the Russian Tsars’ neo-Gothic residences in the great park of the Peterhof Palace.

In the villa’s garden, which is laid out on three levels, look for the semi- circular marble staircase and the grotto below it. It was there, right by the marble lily pond, that young royals would take their classes in the summer time. Also interesting to know is the fact that the nearby kitchens of the royal villa were connected to the palace through an underground passage.

City Escape

Exploring the estate by bicycle When King George bought the estate in 1872, he envisioned creating a sustainable community based on livestock farming and agriculture.

The infrastructure that he built included wells, an irrigation system, mills and bridges. He set about making the estate financially viable by putting certain areas under cultivation, mainly with vineyards and olive groves.

Explore the wider area of the Tatoi Estate and its 90 kms of unpaved forest roads, some of which pass by artificial lakes and stone bridges, either by hiking or bicycling.

Where to lay your picnic blanket One of the most popular picnic areas is that of the so called “great field,” close to the new cowshed. The olive grove is an alternative choice for those seeking more privacy.

How to get to the Estate The Tatoi Estate is 15 kms away from the centre of Athens. To get there, you need to drive up the National Highway and exit at Varibombi junction, after Kifissia. Turn right at Tatoiou st. and about 3 kms further, turn left at Leonidas’ restaurant. Go past Thea and Agios Merkourios tavernas and when you reach the olive groves, park your car and look for the estate’s gate.

If visiting on a Sunday, try to be there by 11.00 as parking can be an ordeal. You can visit the Tatoi Friends Association webpage tatoi. org for maps of the estate, information about its history and photos of its buildings. Friends of Tatoi also run excellent guided visits. For further info, contact info@tatoi.org. i

insider athens | December & January 2015 25

Isabella Zampetaki presents the savagely beautiful landscape around Lake Plastira and suggests a trip to the awe-inspiring Meteora for this holiday season Lake Plastira: Surrounded by green hills, fjord-like peninsulas and the vertical slopes of Mt. Agrafa, Lake Plastira is an artificial lake, close to Karditsa (around 320 kms from Athens) in an area of great natural beauty.

A destination for all seasons, Lake Plastira offers a plethora of possibilities in terms of activities to explore the Lake and its surrounding environs.

The most popular experience is that of driving along its west side and towards the dam at its southern edge. There, you can walk the rim of the dam and catch a view of the canyon through which the river Tavropos meanders down to meet the Acheloos river. An alternative experience for sports enthusiasts is that of riding a bicycle along the lake or to go horseback riding near it. If you are into water sports, rent a canoe or water-bicycle and explore some of the 24 square kilometers of the Lake’s surface. The Neraida ski center, just a few kilometres away, is a wintersport destination with basic facilities that welcomes younger skiers.

A drive around the lake and its sleepy villages, where signs of life are limited to smoky chimneys and raucous hens, can also be combined with a visit to nearby monasteries, such as that of Panagia Pelekiti.

Some interesting facts about the lake itself is that the decision to create it was taken in 1959, after a series of major floods in the area. Previously, during World War II, part of this plateau had been used as an airport base and it was here that the first allied-forces airplane landed in August 1943.

26 insider athens | December & January 2015

Travel

Meteora: a flock of monasteries perched on sandstone pillars The valley of Meteora, less than an hour’s drive away, is one of the day trips worth making while staying in the area of Lake Plastira. Meteora, a flock of monasteries perched on tall sandstone rock pillars suspended between heaven and earth, is a landscape that simultaneously inspires utmost serenity and awe. The six monasteries that are still active today were built in the early 14th century to protect monks from Turkish raiders seeking control of the fertile valleys below. The traditional way to access the monasteries was by net, hauling up people and goods alike, or rope ladder. This should make the steps that one has to climb today seem less of an ordeal! The best monasteries to visit in order to get a feel of what 14th century monastic life was like are those of Varlaam and Great Meteoron. At Great Meteoron, one can see a traditional fullyequipped kitchen and the Varlaam monastery features a gigantic barrel used to store drinking water, as well as a nursing home with an intricate heating system.

insider athens | December & January 2015 27

TOP 5e at La xperience ke s and M Plastira eteor a: 1. Taking in the view of the Meteora monasteries from the top of other rock pillars.

2. Crouching through the 14th century kitchen of the Great Meteoron and the tunnel that takes you through the rock and towards the monastery’s entrance.

3. Driving along the west side of Lake Plastira, towards the dam.

4. Horseback riding and archery near Kryoneri.

5. Haggling at the Saturday livestock market at Mouzaki, where you can buy a pig for just 70 euros!

Montanema, a village in the woods There are a great number of hotels around Lake Plastira, but Montanema Handmade Village is the most recent and most interesting accommodation option. In order to reach this village-like complex of stone and wood houses, one follows an easy 3km dirt road that winds its way among tall evergreens on a slope of Mt. Agrafa. Montanema nestles in a dramatic landscape, surrounded by rocky boulders, overlooking a canyon and the red-tiled rooftops of Anthochori village. One can enjoy this breathtaking view both from Fournia restaurant, which serves oven-baked dishes made with local products, and Irema café, where the fireplace crackles all day long.

What also adds to Montanema’s special charm is the extensive use of upcycling: anything from old trunks and square marble sinks to chairs from old tavernas were restored and used to furnish rooms and common areas.

The owners’ environmental concerns come through in their preference for natural and local products and their way of doing things: local wines are served in the restaurant, handmade bars of soap are offered in the bathrooms. Even the fireplace is lit in an environmentally friendly method. What makes Montanema resort’s experience truly genuine are the seasonal activities offered: trekking in the woods and collecting flowers that grow in the winter or learning how to make feta cheese and savoury pies. And during spring, the weather is just perfect for hiking to the nearby waterfalls and picnicking under cherry blossom trees. i Montanema Handmade Village, Anthochori – Limni Plastira, info@montanema.gr tel. 24450 45220 Distance: Athens - Lake Plastira: 320kms

28 insider athens | December & January 2015

insider athens | December & January 2015 29

A peek under the 400-pleated fustanellas and elaborate uniforms worn by the elite Evzones, a real labour of love, embroidered and hand-crafted by the 10-member tailoring department of the Presidential Palace. A photo essay on a unique tailoring tradition by Angelos Giotopoulos.

30 insider athens | December & January 2015

City Life

O

and 6pm), accompanying the President of the Hellenic Republic on official foreign visits and welcoming foreign dignitaries on visit.

Other special duties also include the annual parade on New York’s 5th Avenue in celebration of Greece’s March 25th National Day and accompanying the Holy Fire every Easter from Jerusalem to Athens.

The Evzone’s duties involve guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Greek Parliament and the Presidential Mansion, raising and lowering the flag every Sunday at the Acropolis (at 9am

Renowned world over for their sartorially distinct costumes (inspired by outfits worn by the klephts, Greek Independence heroes), the Evzone’s uniform comprises the fustanella, a woollen kilt-like garment with its 400 pleats representing the years under Ottoman occupation (now made famous by designer Jean-Paul Gaultier); black-tasselled knee-garters, kaltsodetes; scarlet garrison caps phareon, with their long black tassels; heavy, red tsarouchi clogs with black pompons

ften the most-photographed subjects of tourists, the 6 foottall Evzones (the well-belted, literally) who form part of the Presidential Guard (Proedriki Froura), are as much a symbol of Athens as its other historic landmarks are.

On an average, an Evzone spends 100 hours a week on his feet, weighed down by his rather bulky uniform – and performs his duties unflinchingly, under conditions ranging from scalding temperatures to braving tear-gas used to disperse demonstrators, often under the intense scrutiny of around 11,000 spectators a day!

insider athens | December & January 2015 31

(estimated to weigh around 1.5 kgs); a cotton undershirt; white woolen stockings known as periskelides; a femeli or waistcoat; Krossia, blue and white Cretan fringes; and finally, a leather cartridge belt.

Tucked behind the Parliament, a small group of skilled craftsmen work day-in day-out painstakingly embroidering the intricate details on a waistcoat (estimated to take over a month to sew) or hand-crafting the tsarouchi, hammering around 60 nails into them to make them skid-proof.

The basic colour of the winter uniform tunic is navy blue and closely resembles the service uniform worn until 1910, while the summer uniform tunic is light khaki. Garrisoned in the George Tzavellas Barracks on Herodes Atticus St, it takes upto half-an-hour for an Evzone to don his uniform (with some much-needed assistance).

32 insider athens | December & January 2015

Seen here, from left to right are the royal blue and red uniform based on the traditional Cretan costume (ceremonial), the blue woollen Macedonian uniform (winter service), traditional mainland or Sterea Hellas attire with a fancy gold-brocade waistcoat (full dress uniform worn on Sundays or for special ceremonies), the white cotton uniform which is the official version reserved for special ceremonies (summer service) and the black, traditional Pontic habit (ceremonial).

As much as the Evzones lend these uniforms their glamour (after all, only the tallest and most good-looking get selected!) evoking a deep sense of national pride among Greeks and of pomp and splendour among visitors, it is to the unsung tailoring heroes and seamstresses who have kept alive the rich heritage of fine hand-sewing that this article is dedicated to. i

insider athens | December & January 2015 33

Insider sits down with entrepreneur Alison Damianos, founder of Meet Market, to discuss her favourite Athenian hidden gems, outlook on the crisis and the future of Greece 34 insider athens | December & January 2015

My Athens Meet

Alison

Alison is half English, half Greek and grew up in a similar nomadic spirit to the Market she founded, living in Poland, Holland, England, America and finally Greece. She founded this modern-day agora concept in December 2007 and ever since, the once-a-month two-day extravaganza has gained serious momentum. Meet Market currently has over 200 vendors and 3,000 guests each month, featuring a carefully curated blend of designers, artists and musicians showcasing their work.

The event’s location changes venues each month, live bands, DJs and music producers fill the space with funky music to groove to, bartenders mix up delicious concoctions and there is always a variety of food to nibble on. They recently launched activities for children including arts and crafts, theatre and a playroom; parents are welcome to drop-off their kids while they peruse the venue. Many of the activities are free, the commercial aspect not being a priority for them but rather the meeting and mingling of the creative community of Athens. This is why it is essential that the word Meet is before Market.

Advice to aspiring Greek entrepreneurs?

Don’t give up on Greece. It is sad; a lot of our best and brightest are leaving.

There is a plethora of untapped potential here and beautiful natural resources to be considered. I believe that if you pour your mind, heart, soul and energy into something - you will succeed.

Favourite places to go for a bite Nezos in Gazi, a Turkish restaurant that has incredible value for money. La Soiree de Votanique, a very affordable café meets restaurant meets art gallery with nice music.

Favourite places to

Outlook on Greece and the crisis

sip on a cocktail

Greece has this magic that captures you - it is a beautiful balance of extremes and juxtapositions; we have a touch of tradition and old school yet also a blend of new and modern. The crisis has bred creativity and provided opportunities for people to think outside of the box and take a chance, even if only for survival. If you have a job you dislike making a mediocre income, you might as well take the risk and do something you love and have it grow potentially - on your own terms.

42 bar, their delicious cocktails, uniquely shaped ice-cubes and nut-mixes with wasabi peas are great, the TAF art foundation, Heteroclito for a nice glass of wine and Blue Bird in Syntagma.

Favourite place to

unwind and escape We are really spoiled for choice in Greece but I think the best holiday is renting a sailboat with friends and exploring the islands, finding the little hidden coves off the beaten path. My two favourite destinations are Anafi and Pelion.

Favourite hidden gem The Sepolia neighbourhood. This area is relatively unknown to most Athenians, it has a lush, beautiful park with a little café and passer-bys walking their dogs. I also think that the term ‘gem’ can refer to seeing a place at a different time, from a new perspective such as taking a bike ride through Plaka at 3am. Check out the next Meet Market at Athinais Cultural Centre in Votanikos on 21-23 December, meetmarket.gr. i

insider athens | December & January 2015 35

History

36 insider athens | November & December 2014

Dimitris Tsitouras’ coffee-table book on Santorini’s vintage post cards is a collector’s item and makes for a wonderful holiday gift.

D

esigner, collector and hotelier Dimitris Tsitouras painstakingly collates post cards from the mid-19th century to 1956 to reveal Santorini as it emerged from smouldering volcanoes and ravaging earthquakes in a 400-page coffee-table book – a real labour of love. It is an ode to an island, long the beloved of Nobel poets George Seferis and Odysseas Elytis, as seen through the stark but telling imagery of its post-cards.

The 400-page book not only offers a rare insight into Santorini’s rich cultural life from the mid-19th century until 1956, when the devastating earthquake completely changed Santorini’s topography, it is a historic account of the island punctuated by remarks from archaeologists, photographers, poets and hellenophiles. The 400 postcards presented in the book draw you back into a genteel, sophisticated Greece peopled by aesthetes and men of letters, who travelled across continents, spoke several languages, penned in beautiful long-hand – and left behind post-cards for posterity to offer a glimpse of what life might have been. i The book was presented at the Megaron Mousikis Hall on November 12. The book is priced at 50 euros and is available at all bookstores.

Contact Insider at info@insider-magazine.gr to order the book at a special discounted price of 35 euros.

insider athens | December & January 2015 37

Insider’s Christina Michele Rios invites you to revel in the must-see’s and must-do’s in Kavala and urges you to discover this northern destination

38 insider athens | December & January 2015

Travel ifj

K

avala, one of the largest cities in Northern Greece, is a city with a rich past as it has been through many important milestones in Byzantine, Roman and Christian history. The influence of many cultures, religions and time periods can be felt through the very DNA the city was founded on. It is built amphitheatrically on the slopes of Symvolo Mountain with breathtaking 180-degree views of the sea and is considered among the most beautiful and picturesque cities in the world by historians and architects alike. Kavala is a very metropolitan and diverse city where East meets West and the modern rubs shoulders with the ancient.

An absolute joy to explore.

The Aqueduc, Photo © Achilleas Savopoulos

Have a bite at…

Glykanisos Psarotaverna: an authentic family style tavern.

Insider Favourites: Stuffed kalamari, fresh catch of the day and glykanisos salad. Nikis 49, Nea Peramos, 259.402.3816 Art de Cuisine Brasserie: a modern take on French cuisine with a Mediterranean twist in the centre of Kavala. Insider Favourites: Black squid ink Risotto, chicken with mushroom and parmesan and homemade gnocchi.

El. Venizelou 29, 251.083.704r Poikilies Ananiadi: a connoisseur’s gourmet grocery store and deli with delicious local and imported delicacies including sausages, salami, marmalades, cheese, marinades, pastas, wine, sauces, herbs, bio food, pastries, olive oil and more! Damiano & Kyprou, 251.300.7344, facebook.com/poikilies

Art de Cuisine Brasserie Photo © Konstantinos Sapanas

insider athens | December & January 2015 39

Sip on a cocktail at…

No. 18: the hotspot in Kavala, a cute cocktail bar in the centre with a DJ playing funky dance tunes. Megalou Alexandrou 18, 251.022.2622, no18.gr/ Aqua: a cool lounge with stunning views of the sea and the city of Kavala. Parko Faliro, 69.46.72.6427 facebook.com/aquakavala

Soak in the culture at…

Filippi Archaeological Site: one of the most well preserved archaeological site of eastern Macedonia with excavations from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine and Paleochristian periods. 251.051.6251, gtp.gr/ ArchaeologicalSiteofPhilippi The Aqueduct: formerly known as the Kamares, dating back to the 16th century and of Roman origin. This is one of the city’s most important and well preserved landmarks. and was originally used to transport water to the rock of Panagia. Kavalagreece.gr Byzantine Castle of Kavala: built in the first quarter of the 15th century, the Castle is one of the iconic symbols of Kavala. You can see it from virtually any point in the city. The Castle boasts an incredible view, including that of neighbouring Thassos island. Omonias 117, Top of Panagia Peninsula, 251.083.8602, ipet.gr/castle Thassos island: an island with gorgeous crystalline waters. Take the ferry from Kavala to Skala Prinos, the journey time is 1 hour 15 minutes. thassosferries.gr

Krinides Mud Baths and Thermal Springs

Imaret

Relax and unwind at…

Natural Thermal Springs at Eleftheres spa: the perfect therapeutic remedy, about a 20-minute drive outside of Kavala. 259.405.1294, dimosorfanou.gr Krinides Mud Baths and Thermal Springs: come unwind while basking in the baths’ ancient healing therapeutic properties, approximately a 20 minute drive outside of Kavala. 251.051.6162, philippi.gr

Stay at…

Imaret: a luxurious 5 star palace hotel that seems to have come straight from a fairytale, restored to the highest standards and decorated with superb taste.

The property include an impressive library, extensive manicured gardens, a lounge with signature cocktails, intimate candlelit dinners with Mediterranean cuisine, and a luxurious hammam and cistern to boot! The rooms include Bvlgari toiletries and Molton Brown candles creating a truly unique atmosphere and experience.

Imaret Hotel, Th. Poulidou St 30-32, 251.062.0151, imaret.gr

Take a dip at…

Insider’s Favourite blue-flag awarded beaches. Enjoy the fine powdery sand, turquoise water and serenity at: Kalamitsa, Batis, Tosca, Iraklitsa and Nea PeramosAmmolofi. Kavalagreece.gr i

40 insider athens | December & January 2015

Filippi Archaeological Site

Travel ifj

Insider picks an eclectic selection of groovy gifts for all the family, guaranteed to elicit smiling faces on Christmas morning. Tap into our holiday wish lists and see what we are giving - and hoping to receive!

Body Shop Lip & Body Set: A deliciously inviting pampering set good enough to eat!

Available at thebodyshop.gr

A trendy gift proposal in the form of an enamel charm necklace by Zolotas.

Available at zolotas.gr Amberley Cross Cufflinks: Statement rose gold plated sterling silver cufflinks for the asserted man. Available at wecreateharmony.com

In a black flacon, this fragrance opens with bergamot followed by a long trail of amber, patchouli, labdanum and moss. Available at Perfumes and More, Hotel King George Aersthet Neck Tie: Trendy design with vibrant colour depicting the Greek Alphabet, add a splash of fun to any formal outfit.

Available at aesthet.com

A vibrantly-hued metal sculpture

by Dimitris Korovesi. Perfect adornment for any wall!

Available at: elenimarneri.com

42 insider athens | December & January 2015

Christmas Gift Guide

The beauty must for instant results to discover a brand new you! A perfect way to start the New Year! Available at Apivita Experience Store & Pharmacies Menalon vanilla flavoured honey, a decadent indulgence to make anyone feel Royal! Available at grandebretagnestore.com

This breed is one of the cutest in the world and now you can wear this adorable pug face on a 100% cotton t-shirt across your chest. Available at amazon.com

Mamannoula Madpax: Funky and fun, with original and colourful designs that will make you stand out.

Available at mamannoula.gr

Gaetano Pesce ring: A cool design by the legendary designer for the arty woman. Available at zoumboulakis.gr

80’s Tape Handbag: Nifty retro handbag, a cheeky little accessory for those festive occasions. Available at Accessorize Accessorize: Ermou 42. 210.331.7780 accessorize.gr Aesthet: aesthet.com Amazon: amazon.com Apivita Experience Store: Solonos 6 & Kanari, Kolonaki, 210.364.0560, apivita.com Cellier: Kriezotou 1d, Syntagma. 210.361.0040, Kifissias Ave.369, Kifissia 210.801.8756,Syngrou 320, 210.453.3551 cellier.gr El Marneri Galerie: Lebesii 5-7 &Porinou17, Acropolis. 210.861.9488, elenimarneri.com Grande Bretagne Hotel, Syntagma. 210.333.0000: grandebretagnestore.com Mamannoula: mamannoula.gr Perfumes and More: Hotel King George, Syntagma.210.333.0266 kinggeorgeathens.com Sephora: Ermou 24, 210.331.3167, sephora.gr O.P.I at Sephora: Ermou 24, 210.331.3167, sephora.gr

OPI Nail Polish Set: A selection of warm winter hues to suite every woman’s taste. Available at Sephora Bollinger Champagne: The Bollinger vineyard is one of the most prestigious of the Champagne winegrowing area, reflects a little of the House’s soul. Available at cellier.gr

The Body Shop: Ermou 10, 210.331.1186, thebodyshop.gr WeDesign, Greece Revisited: wecreateharmony.com and wedesignshop.gr Zeus + Dione: Agias Irinis Square 4, 210.325.3839, zeusndione.com Zolotas: Panepistimiou 10 or Stadiou 9. zolotas.gr Aesthet: aesthet.com Zoumboulakis Galleries: 6 Kriezotou st 210.363.4454.zoumboulakis.gr

insider athens | December & January 2015 43

Indulge in a meal at the Kool Life restaurant, especiallly prepared by the redoubtable Ettore Botrini.

Michelin star Chef Ettore Botrini concocts the perfect holiday menu which will have all ye famished flocking for more. Botrini combines improbable flavours and textures to create a guilt-free menu that loves the spirit but hates the calories.

Stay at the Life Gallery and soak in it’s quiet luxury.

A perfect getaway, within the city in the northern suburbs of Athens, with all creature-comforts to cater to your every whim. For reservations, please call: 211 1067 400 Life Gallery, 103 Thiseos Ave, Ekali, lifegallery.gr,, info-lifegallery@bluegr.com

The Life Gallery. A getaway for the senses. A break within the city. A Life experience.

44 insider athens | December & January 2015

insider athens | November & December 2014 45

Health & Wellness

14

photo © Christos Kontsaloudis

With a design aesthetic that is functional as well as child-friendly, DentaKid’s bright yellow and mellow green theme is as much a draw as the affable staff whose unique approach to dentistry make children take charge of their own dental care. Dr. Socrates Mitakos speaks to Athens Insider.

T

he first thing that one notices while stepping into DentaKid’s clinic at Kifissia is the vivid yellow toboggan that winds its way into the reception area and the play room. With tree cut-outs on wood-panelled walls and grass laminates on part of the flooring and in the bathrooms, the philosophy here is to draw on Kifissia’s naturally green character by bringing the outdoors into the interiors and make the clinic a welcoming space for young children.

With state-of-the-art equipment, Dr. Socrates Mitakos and his team of dentists (plus two orthodontist and two maxillofacial surgeons who visit regularly), have invested a great deal of thought and research into creating an anxiety-free, secure environment to make a child’s first dental experience a positive one.

Having studied Dental medicine at Thessaloniki and specialized in paedodentistry in France, in Montpellier and then, Lyon, for Dr. Mitakos, the approach at DentaKid is geared towards making a child’s visit a pleasant and exciting adventure, while offering explanations in ‘kid-friendly’ terms.

“We first take care of the child and then his teeth. A child goes through a lot of change (from his first visit to his adolescent years) and one of our goals is to foresee and prevent potential dental problems.

We discuss the importance of a proper diet, nutrition and good oral hygiene habits – but not in a finger-waggling, reprimanding way. In fact the child is encouraged to play the dentist and ‘examine’ cases on an Ipad, sit in a dentist’s chair, and generally have fun.”

Doctors here wear friendly green t-shirts, not white cloaks. Children

46 insider athens | December & January 2015

visiting DentaKid look forward to the next sessions; who wouldn’t, when you have magic tricks being performed with your tooth landing in a little box in your mother’s purse? Kids get rewards and exclusive gifts at the end of their appointments for encouragement and positive reinforcement of good dental habits.

“We often hear about dentistry and how uncomfortable it is, especially for a child. The mouth is a very intimate space; the invasion of which can be a very emotionally challenging experience. Instead of brusquely pushing open a mouth, we doing it gently; the child often participates in the whole process and holds a mirror, as we offer explanations along.”

And the kids respond to this transparency positively. Dr. Mitakos observes, “The first thing they do when they walk in here is to kick off their shoes; they feel at home!”

“Part of the fear psychosis that makes children shirk dentists is because their parents might have had a bad dental experience that they project on to their children. But today, both children and parents are better informed,” Dr. Mitakos explains.

Noting that early reinforcement holds the key to good dental health, DentaKid also organizes regular visits to schools and kindergartens.

They also encourage ‘visits to the dentist’ from schools to introduce children to the world of dental care. And what advice would he give parents who have to constantly holler after their kids to brush their teeth? “Just keep at it. It will eventually pay off! i 19A Tatoiou, Kifissia 145 61. Tel: 210.623.0737. dentakid.gr / facebook.com/DentakidGR

insider athens | December & January 2015 47

Nikos Zervos, the young and dynamic chef at Athens’ latest hotspot, City Bistro shares his culinary philosophy with Christina Michele Rios

What inspired you to become a Chef?

My mother was a baker in a pastry shop, I was constantly surrounded by a variety of sweets and with that I became her designated ‘taste-tester.’

You worked alongside two of the greatest chefs in the world, first Joël Robuchon in Paris at L’atelier with two Michelin stars and then Ferran Adrià in Spain at El Bulli with three Michelin stars, tell us a little bit about those experiences and what you took away from them?

I am honoured to have worked alongside Joël Robuchon, his innovative kitchen is where my passion for the culinary arts blossomed; I think of my time there as my University in Gastronomy. Later, working with Ferran Adrià involved immense pressure, absolute accuracy and expert efficiency; I feel I received my Master’s Degree in Gastronomy there.

Adrià has the ability to transform products’ shape, texture and flavor; he is not just a Chef, he is an artist of the highest aesthetic standards who taught me to further explore and develop new techniques. What currently inspires and propels me in the kitchen is the task of marrying the techniques I learned from both chefs using our local Greek flavours.

What is the philosophy for City Bistro’s Menu and what are the ‘must-order’ dishes?

City Bistro’s menu consists of dishes that are perfect for any occasion or time of day, be it a cozy dinner or quick elegant lunch break. We take classic favourites and redefine their taste and appearance in an honest, straightforward way without being overworked or ostentatious.

48 insider athens | December & January 2015

Gastronomy

“W

hat currently inspires and propels me in the kitchen is the task of marrying the techniques I learned from Joël Robuchon and Ferran Adrià using our local Greek traditional flavours.”

Essentially, it is a balance between traditional Mediterranean flavours and modern creations using raw foods, organic products and incorporating new trends. The quinoa blini with smoked salmon and honey mustard dressing and the sea bass with crushed potatoes and sauce with coconut lime scent are both a must-order because they embody the perfect harmony of comfort food with an exotic touch.

Your favorite childhood dish?

My mother’s dolmades with yogurt and spaghetti bolognaise, these transport me back to childhood in Rhodes.

Fantasy splurges?

To have dinner at the same table with Paul Bocuse.

Favourite cheap eat?

Pita with pork souvlakia, paprika, fries and tyrokafteri.

Favourite guilty pleasure?

Pastries, without a doubt, which is probably my Mother’s fault! Sweets such as tiramisu, halva mousse with Myconian biscuits, Greek coffee cream, rose ice cream as well as one of my latest creations: semolina halva with walnut pie ice cream and rice pudding mousse are what I crave.

Biggest lesson in life, so far?

A strong work ethic, professionalism and sacrifice are requirements in order to progress in life. Your ability to overcome hurdles and difficulties in life is what matters. There is no lift for success; you have to take the stairs.

Favourite ‘hidden gem’ restaurant in Greece?

Tolis at Simi Island. It is a small tavern with local, fresh produce and a picturesque view of the Aegean.

Any advice to up and coming and aspiring chefs? What is the recipe for success as a chef?

You need to put a lot of love into your work and creations, to have perseverance, patience and to always being willing to experiment, study and learn. Being a chef is about expressing, sharing and evolving - this is the only way to stand out. i

insider athens | December & January 2015 49

Gastronomy

Escape to South East Asia without leaving Athens!

Step inside Andaman’s doors for an authentic Thai experience! selves. The candlelit ambiance and mood lighting makes it a perfect location for a celebratory night out.

The chefs at Andaman set your palette on fire with the authentic flavours of Thailand. Their specialties are the pad thai with shrimp, vermicelli noodle salad with minced pork, shrimp, peanuts, chili and cucumbers, chicken red curry with sticky jasmine-basmati rice, handmade pork dumplings and their ginger shrimp. Their dumplings are the best we have ever had, they melt in your mouth and are delicious on their own but when paired with the balsamic-soy sauce reduction accompanying them which brings out a wonderfully rich flavour, they are a must-order!

Pad thai is of course a staple dish at any Thai restaurant but Andaman’s attention to the contrasting textures between the bean sprouts, peanuts, noodles, and shrimp along with the delicate addition of chili and brown sugar makes it a perfectly balanced comfort food.

U

pon entering Andaman in Petralona, the first thing you will notice is the interior which is especially impressive; the bamboo beams that adorn the ceiling, the picturesque lit up Buddha statues and imaginative stylish décor which could easily pass for a design studio. Even more remarkable is the fact that the owners built and designed the interior them-

50 insider athens | December & January 2015

The chicken red curry with vegetables and bamboo shoots is exhilaratingly fiery hot, which is a rare find in a city like Athens where most international cuisine restaurants have a very light hand when it comes to spice. The vermicelli salad with minced pork, shrimp, peanuts, chili and cucumbers is refreshing and light. This is a great palate cleanser to cool off - trust us you will need it! Or wash these flavours down with Andaman’s new Winter Cocktail menu especially prepared by a master mixologist. Insider Favourites include: The Endless Passion with vodka, a harmonious blend of forest fruits, fresh homemade cinnamon syrup and an orange marmalade - perfectly embodies the holiday season in a glass. The Andaman, their namesake cocktail, is a smooth combination of rum and seasonal fruit, essence of ginger and aromatic basil. The Vanilla sky is a delicious mix of rum, Madagascar vanilla, aromatic fresh lavender and homemade chili syrup—a delicate blend of sugar and spice. i Alopis 65 & Peiraios 187, Kato Petralona 211.210.4939, andaman.gr, facebook.com/andaman.gr

insider athens | December & January 2015 51

Gastronomy

A restaurant that lives up to it’s promise of being the ‘it’ place in town, IT offers haute and healthy cuisine at a bargain, in a sophisticated setting!

A

s a Brown University and Harvard Kennedy School of Government Alumni, Kallia Kambouridou knows a thing or two about strategy and development – and a lot more about good taste. While working for McKinsey & Company in Athens, she grew frustrated with the lack of healthy lunch options available. Sensing a real gap, and a real opportunity, she decided to take a step ahead of the entrepreneurial game by setting up an eatery that would break conventional perceptions.

The IT concept was born, opening its doors in 2003 as a purely takeaway venture. A stylish spot with a clever choice for a name and an imaginative menu with a strong accent on wholesome, nutritious meals, IT was an instant success and soon had a cult following. Before long, customers began clamouring for more, urging her to open an eat-in restaurant where IT’s menu could be enjoyed - on a plate.

Heeding their requests, Kallia decided to launch her current restaurant in 2013, “a casual dining concept that focuses on high-quality, downto-earth, everyday foods served in an eco-friendly, design setting with eclectic music and exquisite service.”

The IT philosophy runs seamlessly from the décor to the cuisine. The dishes are visual treats, plated impeccably and presented intelligently – stimulating one’s appetite even before actually tasting the dish. Chef Andreas Lagos conjures up menus that combine two potentially paradoxical goals – of creating a healthy menu using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients into a crave-inducing, gourmet meal – and that too, at affordable prices. The menu flirts with inspiring titles, coaxing one into unchartered culinary territory and the décor in warm unvarnished wood, is minimalist and modern, yet intimate and inviting. A vertical garden dominates one wall, while an elegant book rack makes for a cozy nook to browse through magazines. Two Adirondack-style chairs in painted driftwood lend colour, as do the cushions on the large wooden bench. The design elements, including the naked light bulb fixtures, are understated, but exude sophistication and class. IT opens out onto an outdoor patio onto the bustling sidewalk of Skoufa st, making for an ideal spot to people-watch.

52 insider athens | December & January 2015

Centrally located in the Kolonaki district, IT’s creative cuisine at extremely reasonable prices, is a highly recommended option for lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch or take-away.

Insider Favourites: For Healthy nibbles: Try spinach rolls with pine-nuts, smoked cheese and lemon marmalade or the quinoa salad with avocado, feta and tahini.

For Light Lunches: The pumpkin soup and creamy tomato soup make for hearty preludes in the winter; for something more filling, opt for the fresh chicken with yogurt sauce or fresh salmon salad with spinach, peas, avocado, dill and honey dressing.

For Lean Dinners: We recommend guilt-free burgers with caramelized onions; tuna fillet with tahini and cherry tomatoes; fresh ravioli with cottage cheese, pesto, thyme and walnut. For sides, choose from: Cypriot potatoes with feta or wild rice with rocket, parmesan, raisins, and a matured vinegar dressing.

For Lazy Brunches: Nothing like It’s Greek French Toast with feta and honey, Sunrise Smoothie or Croque Madame to get going.

Nutrition-fix on-the-go: Any of the large range of sandwiches and wraps that are perfect for dining on-the-go or office delivery. i Skoufa 29, Kolonaki, 210.363.5773, itrestaurant.gr

Acropolis Gifts Greece is for Lovers Karyatidon 13A Tel: 210.924.5064 www.greeceisforlovers.com Tongue-in-cheek souvenirs for the discerning traveller

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr

Marie Chantal Boutique

Ermenegildo Zegna

Rere Papa

Spefsippou 11, Tel: 210.722.2029 Old-fashioned chic for little princes and princesses

Skoufa 18, Tel: 210.361.3700 Home of fine fabrics and handsome tailor-finished suits

Skoufa 62, Tel: 210.364.4300 Distinctive creations by two young Greek women and other international imports

Mouyer

Voukourestiou 50 Tel: 210.364.1308 A haven of hip, carrying labels from Balenciaga to Martin Margiela to Marlene Birger

Kanari 8, Tel: 210.361.7714 Good-quality orthopaedic shoes as well as funkier styles

Free Shop

Skoufa 10 Tel: 210.362.2326 Designer homeware and accessories

Vlassis Holevas

Syllektiko Paleopolio

Anagnostopoulou 19, Tel: 210.361.6167 Elegant fashion with a contemporary twist

Asklipiou 41, Tel: 210.364.1718 Antiques of all sorts and restoration services

Flowers

Vinyl Microstore

Yesterday's Bread

Kallidromiou 87-89, Tel: 210.881.1233 Imported second-hand clothes; individuality guaranteed

Kolonaki Antiques Kilim Hali Valaoritou 9, Tel: 210.363.7056 www.kilimhali.gr Antique carpets from around the world

Beauty &Cosmetics Apivita Solonos 6, Tel: 210.364.0560 Shop natural Greek cosmetics, get a prescription cream made up and have a quick massage

Harnn Shop Irakleitou 15, Tel: 210.364.5428 Beautifully packaged skincare and homespa products

Fleria Bespoke Athens

Fashion

Kalogirou

Atelier Loukia

Patriarchou Ioakim 4, Tel: 210.335.6401 Fetish footwear from Prada, Tod's & Casadei

Kanari 24, Tel: 210.362.7334 Fairytale dresses in lace and embroidery from Greece's doyenne designer

Cava Anthidis Ypsilantou 13-15, Tel: 210.725.1050 Comprehensive wine and liquor wholesalers

Kylix

Bespoke Athens

Solonos 5, Tel: 210.361.8030 French take on American sportswear

Anagnostopoulou 15-17 Tel: 210.364.5518, Made-to-measure suits and shirts from top international tailors

Iraklitou 9, Tel: 210.360.8315 Alber Elbaz's gloriously chic take on the classic French couture house

Boss Store

Lanvin

Linea Piu

Carouzos

Sekeri 6, Tel: 210 360.6125 Collections from exclusive fashion houses including Chanel, Galliano, Lagerfeld and Sonia Rykiel

Kanari 12, Tel: 210.362.7123 Designer items from Prada, Brioni, Donna Karan, Fendi and other top-flight brands

Skoufa 15, Tel: 210.363.5600 Designer emporium stocked with Chloe, Roberto Cavalli, Ralph Lauren, Missoni & more

Amerikis 19, Tel: 210.338.9080 Smart separates for a work wardrobe

Luisa

Deux Hommes

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Kanari 18, Tel: 210.361.4155 Greece's design ambassadors create structural separates and heavenly bridal gowns. www.deuxhommes.gr

Observatory Attitudes

Dior Boutique Voukourestiou 18-20, Tel: 210 361.3014 High-end designer fashion

Xanthou 3, Tel: 210.363.6030 Budget knick-knacks and must-have casuals from America's fashion hero

Karneadou 20, Tel: 210.724.5143 Quality picks from the world’s best vineyards; including Greek labels

Wine Garage Xenokratous 25, Tel: 210.721.3175 Browser-friendly cava with helpful service

Gadgets Octopus Solonos 15, Tel: 210.363 6677 Quirky designs with a sense of humour

Gifts Benaki Museum Gift Shop Vas. Sofias & Koumbari Tel: 210.367.1045 Artefacts and jewellery inspired by the museum’s exhibits

Solonos 9, Tel: 210.364.6910 The ultimate fashion store www.attitudes.gr

Paul & Shark

Jack in the Box

Anagnostopoulou 6, Tel: 210.339.2334 Casual yachting styles

Haritos 13, Tel: 210.725.8735 Beautiful wooden toys and more

Elina Lebessi

Preview

Iraklitou 13, Tel: 210.363.1731 Ethereal frocks, pretty tea-dresses and accessories from around the world

Patriarchou Ioakim 19, Tel: 210.722.4731 High fashion designer shoes

DKNY

Patriarchou Ioakim 35, Tel: 210.722.9697

Food & Wine

Lacoste

Solonos 8, Tel: 210.360.3775 Classic American sportswear

Children

Patriarchou Ioakim 30-32 Tel: 210.725.8525 Original silk designs for scarves, ties, shawls & blouses

The Tsitouras Collection

Exarhia

Didotou 34, Tel: 210.361.4544 New vinyls & cds; also reissues from the 60s & more

Thalassa Collection

Ilias Lalaounis museum

Central Athens

Insider guide Shop

insider athens | December & January 2015 53

Insider guide Shop

Liana Vourakis

Oxette

Anagnostopoulou 26-28, Tel. 2103617705

Skoufa 37, Tel: 210.339.0547 Trendy, affordable jewellery

Home

Ozzi Skoufa 30, Tel: 210.364.2139 Greek silver fashion jewellery

Christofle

Van Cleef & Arpels

Koumbari 5, Tel: 210.362.0483 Classis silver and crystal ideal for wedding gifts

Voukourestiou 1, Tel: 210.331.0319 The jeweller of the international jetset

La Fenetre Irodotou 21, Tel: 210.723.5029 Elegant objects and sophisticated gifts for the house, mostly from France

Parousiasi Patriarchou Ioakim 33, Tel: 210.723.7656, A range of international brands in crystal, china and other eye-catching homeware accessories

Jewellery Apriati Pindarou 29, Tel: 210.360.7878 Smartly designed necklaces, bracelets and rings

Elena Votsi Xanthou 7, Tel: 210.360.0936 Conversation-starting pieces in gold and stone

Fanourakis Patriarchou Ioakim 23 Tel: 210.721.1762, Unique collection of animal and insect pins & earrings

Folli Follie Tsakalof 6 & Solonos 25 Tel: 210.323.0739 Greece's high-street export stocks affordable watches and everyday bijoux

Monastiraki Antiques Darousos Normanou 7, Tel: 210.331.1638 Small antique shop in the heart of the flea market

Paleovivliopolio Hiotakis Normanou 7, Tel: 210.324.7835 Historic bookshop houses rare & old books

Food & Wine DELICATESSEN Arapian Evripidou 41, Tel: 210.321.7238 Old-style butcher shop offers interesting sausages, pasturma & smoked meats

Bahar Evripidou 31, Tel: 210.321.7225 Well-known herb haven

Miran Evripidou 45, Tel: 210.321.7187 Sausages, pastrami & cured meats

Pangrati BEAUTY & COSMETICS

Liana Vourakis

Korres

Anagnostopoulou 26-8 Tel: 210.362.2564 For unique baptism and wedding gifts, start here

Ivikou 8 & Eratosthenous Tel: 210.722.2774 Natural Greek products made using Mediterranean herbs

54 insider athens | December & January 2015

Plaka

Syntagma

Antique stores

Accessories

Martinos Pandrosou 50, Tel: 210.321.2414 Specializes in 19th Century folk art, embroidery & furniture

Food & wine

Bag Stories Panepistimiou 41, Tel: 210.323.7405 Luggage & travel bags by Tumi, Porsche Design, Rimowa & Delsey

Antiques Antiqua

Mesogaia Nikis 52, Tel: 210.322.9146 Packaged & fresh speciality foods

Vassilis Amalias 2-4, Tel: 210.323.2220 One of the oldest antique stores in Athens

Gifts

Beauty & Cosmetics

Amorgos

Fresh Line

Kodrou 3, Tel: 210.324.3836 Hand-carved & painted furniture

Ermou 30, Tel: 210.324.6500 Fresh organic cosmetics from Greece

Psyrri

Ermou 44, Tel: 210.325.8260 International cosmetic brand for women who like to play with colour

Fashion Christoforos Kotentos Sachtouri 3, Tel: 210.325.5434 Glamorous & unique designs

Home Notoshome Kratinou 5, Tel: 210.374.3000 Home dĂŠcor superstore

MAC

Books Eleftheroudakis Panepistimiou 17, Tel: 210.325.8440 The largest foreign language bookstore in Greece

Department Stores attica Panepistimiou 9, Tel: 211.180.2600 Home to an array of luxury goods

Fokas Stadiou 41, Tel: 210.325.7770 Clothes, shoes and accessories for men, women & children

Fashion - Men’s Pagoni Akadimias 61, Tel: 210.363.9277 Selling ties and cufflinks since 1933

Shop Voulis 15, Tel: 210.323.2321 Specializing in arrangements with wild flowers, many indigenous to Greece

Gofas Stadiou 3, Tel: 210.331.7540 High-end timepieces

Ilias Lalaounis

Food & Wine

Panepistimiou 6, Tel: 210.361.1371 Fabulous gold designs by famous Greek jeweller

Aristokratikon

Kessaris

Karageorgi Servas 9, Tel: 210.322.0546 Handmade chocolates

Marathianakis

Cellier Kriezotou 1, Tel: 210.361.0040 Speciality wine shop

Gadgets Public Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.324.6210, Five floors of gaming, gadgets & books

Gifts Graf Von Faber-Castell Boutique

Panepistimiou 7, Tel: 210.323.2919 Wide range of luxury brand timepieces Voukourestiou 21, Tel: 210.362.7118 Old-world shop known for its original & elegant designs

Omega Omega, the brand of James Bond and Nicole Kidman, has its own elegant boutique on Voukourestiou showcasing the brand’s collections Voukourestiou 2, Tel: 210.322.7682

Pentheroudakis Voukourestiou 19, Tel: 210.361.3187 Timeless pieces inspired by classical Greek design

Panepistimiou 41, Tel: 210.321.8564 Traditional hand-held writing utensils

Kori Mitropoleos 13, Tel: 210.323.3534 Traditional & contemporary jewellery

Psarros 1917 Stadiou 3, Tel: 210.322.0908 Executive gifts and smoking accessories

Home Baccarat Voukourestiou 21, Tel: 210.362.2863 Fine crystal from the venerable French luxury house

Jewellery Apriati Pentelis 9 & Mitropoleos, Tel: 210.322.9020 Smartly designed necklaces, bracelets and rings

Bulgari Voukourestiou 8, Tel: 210.324.7118 Opulent designs in jewellery, watches & accessories

Cartier Voukourestiou 7, Tel: 210.331.3600 Two floors of designs & timepieces by the prestigious Cartier maison

Chopard Stadiou 2 & Vas. Georgiou 210.325.0555Legendary time pieces and jewellery.

Folli Follie

Zayiana

Zolotas Panepistimiou 10, Tel: 210.360.1272 Designs inspired by the antique & classical periods as well as contemporary collections by designers like Paloma Picasso www.zolotas.gr

Shoes Spiliopoulos Ermou 63, Tel: 210.322.7590 Pick up a pair of Manolo’s at half price!

Vassilis Zoulias Old Athens Akadimias 4, Tel: 210.361.4762 Handmade shoes and handbags inspired by films of the 50s & 60s

Glyfada Fashion Enny di Monaco Laodikis 41, Tel: 210.894.0153 Carefully selected designs by various international designers

Obervatory Attitudes A. Panagouli 17, Tel: 210.894.2113 The ultimate fashion store www.attitudes.gr

Saltwater Astir Beach, Vouliagmeni 210.894.0813 Designer beach and resortwear

Zayiana

Northern Athens

Dromoloulouda

Ermou 18, Tel: 210.323.0739 Trendy & affordable jewellery & accessories

Southern Athens

Flowers

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr Kifissia Fashion 21 Kifissia Kifissias 265, Tel: 210.801.3594 Extreme sport paraphernelia

Vassilis Zoulias Argyropoulou 1-3, Tel: 210.801.7023 Unique designs reminiscent of times past

Food & Wine Aristokratikon Argyropoulou 8, Tel: 210.801.6533 Decadent handmade chocolates

Bakaliko Ola Ta Kala Kifissias 238-240, Mela Shopping Centre, Tel: 210.808.9908 Quality Greek delicacies

Sorpresa Italiana Kiriazi 6-8, Tel: 210.801.7886, Authentic fresh Italian pasta, sauces, truffles & more

Stefanidis Finest Foods

A. Metaxa 19 Tel: 210.898.32.69 www.zayiana.com

Dimitrios Square 13, Tel: 210.808.2191 Excellent European delicatessen

Jewellery

Kassaveti 5, Tel: 210.801.2472 Milk products & patisserie

ZerTeo Metaxa 24-26, Tel: 210.894.6682 Unique jewellery designs

Varsos

Maroussi Golden Hall

Provence

Kifissias 37A, Tel: 210.680.3450 131 high-end (and high-street) stores for anyone with a passion for fashion

Posidonos 80, Tel: 210.898.1435 Gourmet French delicatessen

Andrea Papandreou 35 Tel: 210.630.0000 Shops, cinemas and food

Food & Wine

20%

The Mall Athens

Off!

Cut this coupon & avail of 20% off on all exclusive brands at Sephora’s stores in Greece.

Central Athens

Insider guide Eat & Drink Acropolis

Enjoy a cocktail or a coffee in a retro pop atmosphere

EAT

Vox

Aglio Olio & Peperonicino Porinou 13, Tel: 210.921.1801 Authentic Italian pasta in a cozy setting, accompanied by luscious salads and homemade dolci

Mani Mani Falirou 10 Tel: 210.921.8180 Peloponnesian specialities with Mediterranean touches

Exarhia EAT

Fabrica de Vino Em. Benaki 3, Tel: 210.321.4148 85 wine etiquettes and mini mezzes in an industrial environment

Kavouras Themistokleous 64, Tel: 210.381.0202 Dine while enjoying live Rebetika music

Salero Valtetsiou 51, Tel: 210.381.3358 Spanish and mediterranean cuisine in the heart of Exarhia

Yantes Valtetsiou 44, Tel: 210.330.1369 Modern Greek cuisine prepared with organic ingredients.

Arahovas 56 & Themistokleous Tel: 210.383.5811 One of the oldest summer cinemas in Athens is a picturesque place for a retro-tinged drink

Gazi EAT Bollywood Gazi Elasidon 29 & Konstantinoupoleos 44, Tel: 210.345.0041 Indian cuisine in an industrial setting

Triptolemou 44, Tel: 210.347.1844 Cocktails and tapas at the bar, just like in Spain Andronikou & Tzaferi 11 Tel: 210.342.2380 Mega club ideal for all-night dancing

Hilton

Mani Mani

Athiri

Butcher’s Shop

Alatsi

Persefonis 19, Tel: 210.341.3440 Traditional psistaria serving grilled meat dishes

Vrassida 13, Tel: 210.721.0501 Exquisite Cretan specialties

Plataion 15, Tel: 210.346.2983 Greek & Mediterranean cuisine in beautiful surroundings

Kohenoor Triptolemou 41, Tel: 210.345.5762 Indian authentic specialties in a neat setting

Athens Hilton Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1400 Traditional Greek recipes with a Mediterranean twist

Mamacas

Cookoovaya

Persefonis 41, Tel: 210.346.4984 Modern taverna located in an old barrel warehouse offering traditional Greek fare

Hatziyianni Mexi 2A, Tel. 210.723.5005, 5 famous chefs combine their talents to create unique flavors.

Prosopa

Milos

Meg. Vasiliou 52 & Konstantinoupoleos 4 Tel: 210.341.3433, Delicious dishes in a warm atmosphere right beside the train tracks. A popular gay haunt.

Athens Hilton Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.724.4400 Simply prepared local flavours.

Guaranteed value for money

Thalatta

Vezene

Vitonos 5, Tel: 210.346.4204 Fresh seafood creations

Vrasida 11, Tel: 210.723.2002 Modern bistrot serving seafood & cured beef

DRINK

Circus Bar

Almaz

Themistokleous 74, Tel: 210.330.1246

Tapas Bar

EAT

Bars, Clubs & Lounges

Ginger Ale

Sofroniou 12A, Tel: 210.341.0308 Excellent cocktails, reasonable prices, summer mood

Villa Mercedes

DRINK Navarinou 11, Tel: 210.361.5255 Attracts a hip and happening crowd in a cozy space

Plastiko

Triptolemou 12, Tel: 210.347.4763 Lounge in a modern atmosphere while listening to music from around the world

Dirty Ginger Triptolemou 46, Tel: 210.342.3809 Excellent cocktails, meat dishes and “hot” finger food

Gazarte Boutadon 32-34, Tel: 210.346.0347 Lounge bar with excellent views of the Acropolis, ethnic music and live events

Gasoline Gargittion 23Α, Tel: 210.346.9396 All day bar with freestyle music and interesting guest-nights

56 insider athens | December & January 2015

Byzantino

Vlassis Meandrou 15, Tel: 210.646.3060 & 210.725.6335, Family-run taverna serving traditional Greek food

DRINK

Voted one of to p in

Paramythias 13 10 restaurants and Salaminos, Europe Tel: 210 524 2727 Haute cuisine in art deco interior

Safka

Regu

Megalou Alexandrou 80-82,lar wine Tel: 210 524 3340 degustatio ns Scandinavian cuisine

Kolonaki EAT Bakeries & Patisseries Cake Irodotou 15, Tel: 210.721.2253 For real American homemade cheesecake, brownies and more

Fresh Kriezotou 12, Tel: 210.364.2948/ Loukianou 21, Tel: 210.729.3453 Desserts and cakes

Restaurants

Galaxy Bar Athens Hilton, Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1402 Rooftop cocktails in a chic atmosphere

Kerameikos EAT Aleria

Funky Gourmet

Awarded Toqu e

d’O Meg. Alexandrou 57, r in 2013 Tel: 210.522.2633 Adventurous Greek cuisine in a cosy setting

Altamira Tsakalof 36A, Tel: 210.361.4695 Flavours of multiethnic cuisine

Boschetto Evangelismos Park, Tel: 210.721.0893 Italian food in a lush central setting

Cafe Boheme Omirou 36, Tel: 210.360.8018 Welcoming nook with Greek cooking and more-ish cocktails

Capanna Ploutarchou 38 & Charitos, Kolonaki Tel: 210.724.1777 People-watching and authentic Italian fare

Eat & Drink Cinco

Ouzadiko

Skoufa 52, Tel: 210.364.360 Stylish, lively tapas bar with great cocktails

Karneadou 25-26, Tel: 210.729.5484 Traditional Greek appetizers & ouzo

F+W

Papadakis

new

Xenokratous 49, Tel: 210.721.1146 Gourmet food by Oliver Campanha

Filippou Xenokratous 19, Tel: 210.721.6390 Home-cooked Greek taverna dishes

IT restaurant Skoufa 29, Tel. 210 36 35 773, Affordable gourmet menu in a chic environment.

Jackson Hall Milioni 4, Tel: 210.361.6098 Gourmet burgers with all the fixings

Kalamaki Kolonaki Ploutarhou 32, Tel: 210.721.8800 Souvlakia on the sidewalk have never been so trendy

Kiku Dimokritou 12, Tel: 210.364.7033 Fresh, beautifully presented sushi

L'Abreuvoir Xenokratous 51, Tel: 210.722.9106 Fine French cuisine

Le Grand Balcon St George Lycabettus Hotel, Kleomenous 2, Tel: 210.729.0711 Gourmet Greek cuisine

Li - Li - Shu Deinokratous 1, Tel: 210.722.2254 Refreshingly authentic Japanese cuisine

Nice n Easy Omirou 60 & Skoufa, Tel.: 210.361.7201 Gourmet cafe-restaurant with organic products and jazz music

Orizontes Lycavyttou Lycabettus Hill, Tel: 210.722.7065 Gourmet dining with a spectacular view

Fokilidou 15 & Voukourestiou 47A Tel: 210.360.8621 Paros' legendary gourmet restaurant serving seafood in the heart of Athens

P-BOX Haritos 24, Periscope hotel Tel: 210.729.8556 Simple ingredients, special flavours in a setting designed by Theodore Zoumboulakis

Prytaneion Milioni 7, Tel: 210.364.3353 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare

Ratka Haritos 32, Tel: 210.729.0746 Popular haunt of the rich and almost famous, with cosmopolitan cuisine

Sale e Pepe Aristipou 34, Tel: 210.723.4102 Authentic Italian trattoria

Scala Vinoteca Sina 50, Tel: 210.361.0041 Mediterranean restaurant ideal for wining & dining

Showroom Milioni 12, Tel: 210.364.6460 Missoni-designed interiors, serving unique Mediterranean flavours

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges City Charitos 43, Tel: 210.722.8910 Modern aesthetics, mutli-culti crowd and soulful music

London str 72

new

Solonos 72, Tel: 693.951.1760, 690.607.3362 Union jacks and red telephone booths in an all day bar-restaurant

For Creative Cuisine www.lachocolatiere.gr

Mai Tai Ploutarhou 18, Tel: 210.725.8306 Early evening cocktails in a laid-back atmosphere

Rosebud Omirou 60 & Skoufa 40, Tel: 210.339.2370 All day hang-out with music ranging from jazz to famous soundtracks

Skoufaki Skoufa 47-49, Tel: 210.364.5888 All time classic café bar

Ten Ploutarhou 10, Tel: 210.721.0161 One of the most popular hot spots in town

Mavili Sq DRINK

Cafés

Balthazar

Da Capo Tsakalof 1, Tel: 210.360.2497 Long-established people-watching hangout

Peros

Tsoha 27, Tel: 210.644.1215 Lovely garden and chic interior attracts a cool crowd

Baraonda

Kolonaki Square, Tel: 210.364.5068 Enjoy a cup of java if you can find a spot

Tsoha 43, Tel: 210.644.4308 Gourmet cuisine and funky beats

TGI Friday’s

Tea

Kolokotroni 35, Kefalari sq.

Tel: 210.623.3945 American restaurant with real steak and barbecuesauce for casual dining!

To Tsai

Dorileou 6, Tel: 210.654.2380 Trendy hole-in-the-wall hangout

Soutsou & Likavitou, Tel: 210.338.8941 Tea & tea paraphernalia from around the world

Briki

EAT Fuga Vas.Sofias & Kokkali 1, Tel: 210 724 2979 Italian inspired menu by chef Andrea Berton at the Athens Concert Hall

Ginger Dorileou 10-12, Tel: 210.645.1169 Original dishes and innovative combinations in an elegant atmosphere To Tsai

St’Astra

Alexadras 10, Tel: 210.889.4500 For an unforgettable roof-top dining experience

To Parko Eleftherias

Aleria

Milos Garden

Next to Megaron Mousikis, Tel: 210.722.3784 Classic recipes and nice atmopshere in a lush green park

insider athens | December & January 2015 57

Insider guide Eat & Drink Metaxurgeio EAT Archeon Gefsis Kodratou 22, Tel: 210.523.9661 Ancient Greek cuisine makes a unique comeback after 25 centuries

Polly Maggoo Leonidou 80 & Salaminos, Tel: 210 524 1120 Gourmet cuisine in a post-modern and industrial setting.

New hot spot for the trendy

Tamarind Thai Kitchen, Kerameikou 51, Tel: 210.522.5945

Monastiraki EAT

360 Cocktail Bar

A for Athens Miaouli 2-4, Tel: 210.324.4244 An urban terrace with the most stunning view of the Acropolis

Loukoumi Bar Plateia Avissinias 3, Tel: 210.323.4814 An all day hang-out with good music, cool atmosphere and great views

Six Dogs

Monastiraki Square 2 Tel: 210.321.3036 Old-world taverna serving traditional Greek fare

Avramiotou 6-8, Tel: 210.321.0510 A day&night cultural entertainment center and bar with a vivid 600m2 back-garden.

Café Avyssinias

Taf

Kynetou 7, Tel: 210.321.7407 Spcializing in regional dishes & live music on weekends

Normanou 5, Tel: 210.323.8757 Outdoor bar in a neoclassical building with arty atmosphere and great exhibitions

Bairaktaris

Melilotos Kalamiotou 19, Tel: 210.322.2458 Greek-Mediterranean cuisine with fresh local ingredients

Omonia

Savvas

EAT

Mitropoleos 86, Tel: 210.321.9919 Gyros & Middle Eastern dishes like pastourmali

Themistokleous 2, Tel: 210.383.8485 A traditional Greek ouzeri

Sigalas-Bairaktaris

Athinaikon

Ideal Restaurant

Monastiraki Sq. 2, Tel: 210.321.3036 Century-old restaurant serving a variety of fresh dishes

Panepistimiou 46, Tel: 210.330.3000 Greek classics in old-world decor

Souvlaki Bar

Themistokleous 8 and Nikitara 9, Tel: 210.383.8531 Excellent fish taverna in the centre of Athens

Adrianou 7 & Thisiou 15, Tel: 210.515.0550

Stou Meïdani Sokratous 3 & Evripidou Tel: 210.324.9073, A menu that is sure to please with speciality oven dishes

Thanassis

Trata

Pangrati EAT Cucina Povera

To Kouti

Evforionos 13 & Eratosthenous Tel: 210.756.6008, Greek cuisine with a menu that changes daily

Adrianou 23, Tel: 210.321.3229 Mediterranean fare right next to the ancient agora

Efroniou 5, Tel: 210.721.7421 Greek food & political gossip

Mitropoleos 69, Tel: 210.324.4705 A souvlaki lover’s paradise

Fatsio

Spondi

DRINK 360 Cocktail Bar Ifestou 2, Tel: 210.321.0006

2 Michelin

stars Pyrronos 5, Tel: 210.756.4021 A mix of European & more exotic flavours. Voted one of the best in Athens

58 insider athens | December & January 2015

Fuga

Trata o Stelios

Electra

Anagenniseos Sq. 7-9, Tel: 210.729.1533 The best grilled fish in town

Nikodimou 18-20, Tel: 210.337.0000 Roof-top dining with Greek cuisine

DRINK - LIVE BARS Half Note Jazz Club Trivonianou 17, Tel: 210.921.3310 A jazz club with great history, hostingimportant names from the international music scene.

Superfly Empedokleous 28-30, Tel: 211.404.6076 The new hot spot for retro gamers

Mono Wine Restaurant Venizelou Paleologou 4, Tel: 210.322.6711 Unpretentious gourmet cuisine

Scholarheio Tripodon 14, Tel: 210.324.1605 A traditional tray taverna with old fashioned decor & prices

Ydria Adrianou 68 & Eolou, Tel: 210.325.1619 Taditional Greek cuisine

Plaka

Psyrri

EAT

EAT

2 Mazi

Diporto

Nikis 48, Tel: 210.322.2839 Creative gourmet dishes that change monthly

Daphne’s Restaurant Lysikratous 4, Tel: 210.322.7971 Refined classic Greek dishes in a resplendent atmosphere Spondi

Theatrou & Sokratous, Tel: 210.321.1463 Old-world tavern offers bargain basics like salads, sardines & fava

Gostijo Aisopou 10 street, Tel: 210.323.3825 Kosher menu and mediterranean “repertoire”

Eat & Drink

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr Frequent wine tastings Voulis 44A Syntagma.

Kouzina Cine-Psirri

City Bistro

Noodle Bar

Oinoscent

Sari 44, Tel: 210.321.5534 Mediterranean fare & eclectic music

Stoa Spiliomilou, Syntagma, Tel. 210 32 11 315, citylink.gr Refined cuisine in chic setting

Apollonos 11, Tel: 210.331.8585 A congenial place to drop in for a quick noodle fix

Tel: 210.322.9374 Trendy winebar

Ochre & Brown

Dosirak

O Tzitzikas ki o Mermigas

Leokoriou 7, Tel: 210.331.2950 Mediterranean/French cuisine

Voulis 31-33, Tel: 210.323.3330 Japanese & Korean cuisine in the heart of Athens

Mitropoleos 12-14, Tel: 210.324.7607 Savoury Greek cuisine, perfectly combining modern & traditional elements

Furin Kazan

Osterman

Apollonos 2, Tel: 210.322.9170 A Japanese favourite of expats & Athenians alike

Agias Eirinis Sq, Tel: 210.324.3331 Mediterranean dishes in a setting where minimalism meets retro

GB Corner

Paul

Hotel Grand Bretagne, Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.333.0750 Luxurious surroundings, Mediterranean cuisine

Panepistiomiou 10, Tel: 210.722.4824 A true French patisserie

DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges Cantina Social

Try the

Leokoriou 8, Polish beers Tel: 210.325.1668 Tiny standing bar, ideal for socializing.

Dude

Plaza Lounges

Apollonos 6, Tel: 210.323.7720

Ioannis

The Parliament

Royal Olympic Hotel, Ath. Diakou 28-34, Tel: 210.928.8400 Greek & Mediterranean cuisine with breathtaking views from the rooftop

NJV Athens Plaza Hotel Vas. Georgiou A & Stadiou Tel: 210.335.2400 International cuisine with Mediterranean accents

Avocado

Meatropoleos 3

Tudor Hall Restaurant & Lounge

Nikis 30, Tel: 210.323.7878 Vegetarian restaurant

Mitropoleos 3, Tel: 210.324.1805 Modern greek grill restaurant

King George Hotel Vas. Georgiou A 3, Tel: 210.322.2210 Elegant setting, refined cuisine an an incredible Acropolis view

Syntagma EAT

Indian Kitchen

Bars, Clubs & Lounges Boutique

Explorer’s Lounge NJV Athens Plaza, Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.335.2400, Magnificent cocktails and live jazz in an intimate atmosphere

Drink

Eat

Heteroclito Classic: Filippou, Kolonaki, Athens

Fokionos 2, Tel: 210.323.9406 A true wine destination with focus on Greek vineyards

Alternative: Vezene, Ilissia, Athens

Kalua

New: CV, Kerameikos, Athens

Amerikis 6, Tel: 210.360.8304 Dance the night away in a chic environment

Alternative: Minnie the Moocher, Kolonaki, Athens

Café Zoe Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93 Tel: 210.920.6655 Casual dining and terrific buffets for lunch and on Sundays

Hytra

Michelin star chef

Onassis Cultural Center Syngrou Ave 107-109, Tel: 217.707.1118, 210.331.6767 Creative gourmet Greek cuisine by Nikos Karathanos with stunning views Syngrou Ave. 303, Tel: 210.940.8620 Excellent seafood in a pleasant Mediterranean atmosphere

Hotel Hera, Falirou 9, Tel: 210.923.6682 Traditional food with breathtaking Acropolis views

Première Athenaeum InterContinental, Syngrou Ave 89-93, Tel: 210.920.6981 Gourmet cuisine with splendid views

Quona Qai Athen Ledra Hotel, Syngrou 115, Neos Kosmos Tel: 210.930.0000 Polynesian - Tepanyiaki Restaurant

EAT Indian Masala

New: Onassis Cultural Centre, Tavros, Athens

Do

Metropolitan Hotel, Syngrou Ave 385, Tel: 210.947.100 French bistrot inspired by Michel Roux

Thissio

Classic: Oinoscent, Syntagma, Athens

Classic: Museum of Cycladic Art, Kolonaki, Athens Alternative: Herakleidon Museum, Thissio, Athens

Avenue

Peacock

Filellinon 15, Tel: 210.323.1315 Popular Athenian night spot

New: Suba, Kolonaki, Athens

Syngrou Ave. 156, Tel: 210.923.2918 Original seafood dishes, fresh ingredients and simple elegant interior

Kollias

DRINK

The concierge of the Grande Bretagne Hotel in Syntagma Square recommends:

EAT AiNikolas

NJV Athens Plaza Hotel Vas. Georgiou A & Stadiou Tel: 210.335.2400 All day lounge with salads & snacks

Kalamiotou 14, Tel: 210.322.7130 Uptempo bar inspired by “Big Lebowski”

Syngrou

Explorer’s Lounge

Ermou 129, Tel: 210.321.9412 Amazing Indian food at affordable price in a pleasant environment

insider athens | December & January 2015 59

Insider guide Eat & Drink Zefyros

Apostoplou Pavlou 31 Tel: 210.346.6960 Ideal for a lunch break

Ak. Koumoundourou 48, Tel: 210.417.5152 Fresh seafood on the quay

Kuzina

Zorbas

Adrianou 9, Tel: 210.324.0133 Inspired traditional recipes in a cozy arty environment

Ak. Koumoundourou 14, Tel: 210.411.1163 Unique flavours of the Mediterranean

Southern Athens

Kirki

Piraeus

DRINK

New Address!

Kyprou 30-32, Tel: 210.963.8770

Istioploikos

EAT Captain John's Ak. Koumoundourou 16A, Tel: 210.417.7589 Traditional seafood

Dourambeis Ak. Protopsalti 29, Tel: 210.412.2092 Classic fish taverna

Jimmy and The Fish Ak. Mikrolimanou, Tel: 210.413.4084.

Excellent seafood; try the astakomakaronada

Kollias Plastira 3, Tel: 210.462.9620 Excellent seafood but difficult to find; reserve on weekends

Tony Bonano Papanastasiou 63, Tel: 210.411.1901 Italian cuisine with a view of the harbour

Ak. Microlimanou, Tel: 210.413.4084 One of the hip places to see and be seen with a rooftop bar overlooking the yachting marina

Katafigio Ak. Koumoundourou 4, Tel: 210.413.1612 Club, cafe & beer house

Faliro EAT Da Bruno Ag. Alexandrou 46, Tel: 210.981.8959 Rich list with Italian flavours and fresh pasta

Il Tinello Knossou 54, Tel: 210.982.8462 Real Italian home cooking

Kebabtzidikon Kyr. Aristos new Zisimopoulou 96, 210.982.2320 Turkish-Greek fusion food

Kitchen Bar

Degustation menu Poseidonos 3, Tel: 210.981.2004 Ak. Koumoundourou 52, at just 40€ Comfort food overlooking the sea Varoulko

Mikrolimano, Tel: 210 5228400 Seafood prepared by Michelin star-winning chef Lefteris Lazarou

Le Petit Sommelier

Zaimi 6, Tel: 210.984.2344 French cuisine & excellent wine list

Molly Malone's

Aperitivo

Zannitsopoulou 8, Tel: 210.894.4247 Irish pub serving probably the best Irish Stew in Athens

Kyprou 70, Tel: 210.894.0377 Authentic Italian cuisine in a cosy setting

Barin

new

Russian

cuisine

33rd Street Elliniko 13, Tel: 210.963.5416 The fist dedicated Russian restaurant in Athens

Beirut Panagouli 52 & Faidras Tel: 210.894.3169 Lebanese cuisine & entertainment

Food Mafia Laodikis & Filikis Etairias10, Tel: 210.894.2177 International fare with attitude

Giouvetsakia Ithomis 20 and Moreos, Tel: 210.964.8081 Organic mageirefta food

Hama Grigoriou Lambraki 34, Tel: 210.960.0595 Sophisticated Japanese cuisine in a cosy setting

Il Salotto Markou Botsari 13, Tel: 210.894.8397 Minimal décor, elegant Italian fare

Mushroom

new

Labraki & Ag. Nikolaou 48, Tel: 210.960.3943 Menu with emphasis on mushrooms with cosy, wood decor. Try the cocktail with mushrooms

Mutfak Laodikis 38, Tel: 210.894.9060 Authentic flavours from the Bosphorous

Route Nationale 7 A. Lazaraki 61, Tel: 210.894.0711 Mediterranean cuisine with a French approach and wine bar

Sardelaki Foivis 15, Tel: 211.402.1195 Sardines and seafood in a casual setting.

Sale Bianco da Salvotoro Markou Botsari 10A, Tel: 210.898.6301 Authentic Italian food in an inviting atmosphere

The Burger Joint Foivis 17, Tel: 210.894.0260 NY style, organic burgers in a casual and relaxed environment.

To 25araki

DRINK

lazaraki 26, Tel: 2108944982 Sushi fusion

M. Botsari 8, Tel: 210.894.4112 Fresh seafood at reasonable prices

Zinc

Jamon Pintxos Bar

“Flisvos” Marina, Tel: 210.985.3183 Cocktails whith music

Zythos Eleftherias 45, Tel: 210.985.0478 Reminiscent of an Irish pub with several beers to choose from

Glyfada EAT Bakeries & Patisseries Paul Varoulko

Restaurants

Inbi

Vassilenas Etolikou 72 & Vitolion, Tel: 210.461.2457 Friendly food and atmosphere

Matsuhisa

Esperidon Square and Kyprou 70, Tel: 210.894.7169 A real French boulangerie that serves meals too.

60 insider athens | December & January 2015

Laodikis 33-35, Tel: 210.894.6089 Basque “pinchos” in a cozy, cheerful atmosphere

Keep Woking Dimitriou Gounari 70, Tel:211.012.2801 Create-your-own Asian cuisine, fast and funky

La Casa Di Giorgino Kyprou 30-32, Tel: 210.963.8770 Authentic Italian pizza made in a traditional wood-burning oven

Mimaya Markou Botsari 8, Tel: 210.894.4850 Black and white setting with creative Mediterranean cuisine.

Vincenzo Giannitsopoulou 1, Tel: 210.894.1310 Value for money Italian specialities with a Southern Italian touch

CreperieS To Paramythi Kyprou 9, Tel: 210.894.1361 Creperie in a fairy-tale setting

DRINK Bars, Clubs & Lounges Balux Posidonos 58, Tel: 210.898.3577 Waterfront lounging

Eat & Drink Galazia Hytra

DRINK

Saipan

Westin Hotel, Astir Palace, 210.890.2137 Michelin star gourmet restaurant

En Plo

K. Varnali 9, Tel: 210.685.0644 Exquisite dishes from China, Japan and Indonesia

Il Tramonto Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.8901794 Creative Italian cuisine with mindblowing views of the Saronic Gulf

Ithaki

Bourbon Daskaroli 67 Tel: 210.964.7600 American style bar with rock, blues, soul music and live events

Capri Bay Grigoriou Lambraki 2, Tel: 210.894.9995 Excellent cocktails in a Moroccan style garden

Mikro Laodikis 33-35, Tel: 210.894.1031 Minimal decor with well-known Greek DJs

Vinarte Marangou 18, Tel: 210 894.1511 A wine bar and Italian restaurant with regular art exhibitions and cool decor

Cafes Chocolat Zisimopoulou 9, Tel: 210.894.3442 Satisfies even the most discerning coffee connoisseur

Voula EAT Dulcis in Fundo Prinkipos Petrou 33, Tel: 210.894.2136 Top-quality authentic Italian

Live music Vasileos Pavlou 99,Thursday-Saturday Elias Koukoutsi

Tel: 210.899.5480 A modern “rakadiko” serving Greek dishes.

Naiades Vas. Pavlou 74, Tel: 210.965.7706 Popular family grill joint

Vouliagmeni EAT Baku

Apollonos 28, Tel: 210.896.3747 Beautiful sea view, fresh seafood & great service

Kiku Seaside new

Orfeos 2, 210.967.1866 Sushi by the sea

Louizidis Ermou 2, Tel: 210.896.0591 Traditional Greek taverna popular with the locals

Malabar The Margi, Litous 11, Tel: 210.892.9160 Multinational tastes in a chic Mediterranean ambience

Rafale Apollonos 28, Tel: 210.967.1184 Traditionally prepared seafood dishes presented exquisitely

Matsuhisa Athens Astir Palace, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.896.0510 Celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa serves up sushi favourites with a Latin-American flair

Mythos of the Sea Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou, Tel: 210.891.1100 Gourmet Mediterranean cuisine that blends local produce with fresh seafood

Psaraki Posidonos 15, Tel: 210.896.2215 Seafood served in an informal setting

Posidonos 4, Tel: 210.967.1770 Cocktails overlooking Vouliagmeni Bay

Island 27th klm Athinon-Souniou Tel: 210.965.3563-4 Award-winning cuisine & an unmatched location with views of the Saronic Gulf

Sofa Bar The Westin Hotel, Apollonos 40, Tel: 210.890.1709 Modern lounge bar serving up delectable cocktails

Northern Athens

Bo Botrini’s

To advertise, contact ads@insider-magazine.gr

Schara Posidonos 15, Tel: 210.896.2432 Grills with frills in a friendly setting at reasonable prices

Silver Casa Litous 2 & Apollonos 18, Tel: 210.967.1164, 210.896.4112 Italian restaurant across the water

Waffle House Posidonos 17, Tel: 210.896.1227 Sure to satisfy your sweet tooth Il Τramonto

Ag. Paraskevi EAT

1920 Ag. Paraskevi 110, Tel: 210.681.3029 Accent on meat in an elegant setting

Psomi & Alati Eleftherioton Sq 8, Tel.: 210.684.8178 Gastronomic paradise serving Greek dishes with a modern twist

Rakokazano Irakliou 1, Tel: 210.689.5501 Quality Greek mezzes in a cosy simple environment

Santa Fe Ag. Georgiou 30’B, Tel: 210.685.9690 Mexican food in traditional setting

Step by step

Da Vinci Ag. Ioannou 23, Tel: 210.600.0102 Delightful dishes in fantastic ambience

Nanninela

new

Socratous 4, Tel: 213.027.6376 Refined tastes in cool, quirky aesthetics

Wine Not

new

Kalogrezis 12, Tel: 210.689.0007 Industrial setting with eclectic wine list

Peloponnissou 13 Tel: 210.600.5622 Authentic Italian cuisine in traditional decor

Psychico

Halandri

310 Street

EAT 30 something Iroon Sq 8, Tel: 210.689.9227 Pizza and cocktail bar in a San Franscisco atmosphere

Almyra Filikis Eterias 39, Tel: 210.681.9109 Refined seafood and magical summer garden

Anahita Chr. Smirnis 3, Tel: 210.689.1222 The only place in Athens to try authentic Persian dishes

Apsendi Kifissias 250-254 & Serres Tel: 210.671.7890 Refined cuisine and cocktails in stylish urban atmosphere

EAT Kifissias Av. 310, Tel: 210.671.0688 Juicy burgers and rich salads with retro look

Albion Omirou 6, Tel: 210.674.0710 Mediterranean flavours in a cosy atmosphere

Antaios G. Drosini 7, Tel: 210.675.5493 Relaxed atmosphere with delicious mezedes

Bluefield Burger Aggelopoulou 3, Tel: 210.677.7739 For real American burgers

The Burger Joint Solomou 4-6, Tel: 210.671.2222 New York style, organic burgers in an industrial and fresh restaurant environment.

Margi Hotel, Litous 11, Tel: 210.967.0924 Delicious variations of Mediterranean food

Bo Botrini’s Vasileos Georgiou B 24b, Halandri, Tel: 210.685.7323 Athens' best table by far, winner of Golden Hats 2014

China’s Fantasy

Al Bacio

Meat Square

Dioskouroi

Posidonos 17, Tel: 210.896.0400 Trattoria serving traditional Italian dishes & pizza

Ethnikis Antistaseos 9-11, Tel: 210.683.1300, Juicy steaks in pleasant family environment

Dim. Vasiliou 16, Tel: 210.671.3997 All day café-restaurant

Kambouroglou 32, Tel: 210.674.9889 Chinese cuisine

insider athens | December & January 2015 61

5

Insider guide Eat & Drink Kifissias 289, Tel: 210.801.1093 Delicious salads, appetizers, souvlakia & grilled platters

Gaspar Food and Mood

Il Salumaio

Dim. Vasiliou Av. & Lykourgou, Tel: 210.677.5011 Creative bistro cuisine ideal fro business lunches

Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Specially-prepared Italian meals

Krithamos

Kifissias 222, Tel: 210.808.8318 Indian cuisine and fine wines

Mpoumpoulinas & N. Paritsi, Tel: 210.672.8790 Traditional flavours in an informal atmosphere

Matilde Pizza Bar Perikleous 7, Tel: 210.671.6803 Italian fare with accent on high quality ingredients

Ombra Olimpionikon 220 & Lykourgou, Tel: 210.671.1320 Italian food with attitude

Piperia Agg. Sikelianou 8 & Andrianiou, Tel: 210.672.9114 Terrific fusion food with piquant flavours

Rena tis Ftelias 25th Martiou 28, Tel: 210.674.3874 Highly recommended Greek taverna

Kifissia EAT Berdema Vas Amalias 20, Tel: 210.801.3853 Traditional dishes from Greece & Asia Minor

Cash Diligianni 54, Tel: 212.100.4772 Cosmopolitan hang-out with upscale Mediterranean cuisine

Common Secret

Jaipur Palace

Kastelorizo Platanon 2, Tel: 210.807.5408 Part of a chain of upscale seafood restaurants that is sure to please

Kokkino Psaraki Evagelistrias 36, Tel: 210.620.1572 Seafood taverna

Kool Life Life Gallery, Thiseos 103, Tel: 211.106.7400 Lefteris Lazarou's cuisine in a cool restaurant cum deli

Mangiamo by Meat Square Stamata Ave. 5, Drossia.

Tel: 210.800.4700 Open from Mondays to Friday from 3 pm to midnight and on weekends from 1pm to midnight

Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.800.1402 Divine food from all over the world

Golden Phoenix Harilaou Trikoupi & Gortinias Tel: 210.801.3588, Chinese classic popular for the brunch buffet

Kifisias 248, Tel: 210.623.0870 New hang out oasis with retro ambience

Mento Café Ag. Theodorou 10, Tel: 210.808.0193 Traditional home turned stylish cafe

Vinifera Kifissias 317, Tel: 210.807.7709 Selection of wines from all over the world

Food & Wine Cellier Kifissias 369, Tel: 210.801.8756 By far, one of the best cellars stocking the finest labels in town

Maroussi Agani Kifissias 22, Tel: 210.277.7065 Delectable, inspired Greek cuisine

Altamira

Nui Gortinias 11, Tel: 210.801.3553 Gourmet mutli-Asian restaurant

O Tzitzikas Ki O Mermigas

Prytaneion

Royal Thai Zirini 12, Tel: 210.623.2322 Thai cuisine in an opulent setting

Salumaio di Atene Panagitsas 3, Tel: 210.623.3934 Authentic Italian food & fabulous desserts

Semiramis Restaurant Semiramis Hotel, Harilaou Trikoupi 48, Tel: 210.628.4500 Mediterranean cuisine in a hip atmosphere

Telemachos Barbeque Club Fragkopoulou 22, Tel: 210.807.6680 Rare meats char-grilled to perfection

62 insider athens | December & January 2015

Pausa Ag. Konstantinou 46 & Ifestou 3 Tel: 210.617.9290 Italian cuisine accompanied by a selection of Greek & Italian wines

Wagamama Kifissias 37A, Tel: 210.683.6844 Fresh, nutritious Asian fusion food in a sleek yet simple setting

Whispers of wine Ag. Konstantinou 48, Tel: 210.617.9051 Gourmet food with rich wine list and vintage decor Urban Yoga Center

Hilton, Vas. Sofias 46, Tel: 210.728.1801 Indoor and outdoor pools

Olive Tree Spa Chatzigiani Mexi 4, Tel: 210.724.4425

Syntagma GB Spa Syntagma Square, Tel: 210.333.0799 Award-winning spa featuring treatments

by E’SPA, Valmont & Algoane

Holmes Place Stadiou 4 & Voukourestiou Tel: 210.325.9400, Fully equipped health club with excellent array of classes

Ag. Asomaton 17 & Melidoni 1 Tel: 210.323.1073

Stratigou Lekka 19, Tel: 210.806.6700 Traditional cuisine in a comfy-chic setting reminiscent of the 50s & 60s

Alamanas 1, Tel: 210.619.9902 Clean lines and a beautiful garden make this café, bar, restaurant a must

Hiltonia Health & Wellness Club

Hammam baths

Aneton

Ethnikis Antistaseos & Psaron 1 Tel: 210.684.0460 Mexican flavours in a traditional setting

Hilton

Thissio

Perikleous 28, Tel: 210.612.8841 Multiethnic cuisine in funky environment

Mauzac

Kolokotroni 37, Tel: 210.808.9160 Generous portions of Mediterranean fare

Gefsis Me Onomasia Proelefsis

Dyo 48

El Taco Bueno

Kyriazi 24, Tel: 210.808.7906 Excellent Mexican food & super margaritas Dexamenis & Olimpionikon 4, Tel: 210.62.00.005 The authenticity of Greek cuisine with stunning views of the city

Ag. Dimitriou 9, Tel: 210.801.5830 The cool sets preferred bar with baroque décor and refined cuisine

Harilaou Trikoupi 50, Tel: 210.808.3333 Lebanese cuisine in a cosmopolitan ambience

Dos Hermanos

Elaias Gi

Chateau

Nargile

Drosini 12-14, Tel: 210.623.0080 A modern taverna serving traditional dishes at reasonable prices

Kifissias 324, Tel: 210.623.3810 Coffee and light Mediterranean meals in a pleasant setting

DRINK

Central Athens

Gourounakia Kifissias

Perikleous 11, Tel: 210.671.1976 A modern take on a traditional psarotaverna

Southern Athens

Fish Co. Platters

Chill

Glyfada Holmes Place Gr. Lambraki 83 Tel: 210.969.0096

Touch & Go Dousmani 15, Tel: 210.894.4734 Quick relief by expert masseurs

Voula Urban Yoga Center Leukados 10 Tel: 213.025.3946, 697.704.0841 Release from urban stress

Vouliagmeni Arion Spa Astir Complex, Apollonos 40 Tel: 210.890.2000

Divani Apollon Palace & Spa Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou, Tel: 210.891.1100

see & do Athinais Cultural Centre formerly a silk factory, this space has been converted into a large cultural centre. astorias 34-36, Votanikos. Tel: 210.348.0000.

B&M Theocharakis Foundation for the Fine Arts & Music Vas. Sofias 9 & Merlin 1, Athens Tel: 210.361.1206 Ileana Tounta Contemporary Art Centre 48 Armatolon-Klephton st.

Athens, Tel: 210.643.9466 Megaron Mousikis (The Athens Concert Hall) live concerts, operas and other performances. Vas. Sofias Ave. & Kokkali. Tel: 210.728.2333 Michael Cacoyannis Foundation Piraeus 206, Tavros, Tel: 210.341.8550 Onassis Cultural Centre Syngrou 107-109, Athens, Tel: 213.017.8000 The Art Foundation Normanou 5, Athens, Tel: 210.323.8757 Badminton Theatre Goudi, Athens, Tel: 211 101 0020 Gialino Music Theatre Sygrou 143, N. Smyrni, Athens Tel: 210.9316.101-4 Pallas Theatre Voukourestiou 5, Athens, Tel: 210.321.3100

Acropolis is open daily and entrance, includes archaeological sites. Tel: 201.321.0219 Ancient Agora was the heart of ancient Athens - the focus of political, commercial, administrative and social life for centuries.

Byzantine Churches many churches dating from the 11th and 12th centuries are found around the city. Noteworthy examples include: Agios Eleftherios, next to the cathedral on Mitropoleos Street; Kapnikarea, halfway down Ermou Street from Syntagma; Agi Apostoli, Agora area south of Stoa of Attalos; and Agia Triada (Russian Orthodox church) on Filellinon Street.

Churches are open to the public on Sundays and holidays, also usually for daily prayers 7am-1pm and 4-6:30pm. Dress soberly when

Agora Museum Located in the Stoa of Attalos, Athens. Tel: 210.321.0185.

Atelier Spyros Vassiliou Webster 5A, Athens.

Tel: 210.923.1502, spyrosvassiliou.org Athens University History Museum Tholou 5, Plaka, Tel: 210.368.9502, history-museum.uoa.gr Benaki Museum Koumbari 1 & Vas. Sofias Avenue, Athens Tel: 210.367.1000, benaki.gr Benaki Museum of Islamic Arts Dipylou 12, Kerameikos. Tel: 210.325.1311, benaki.gr

Benaki Museum, Pireos Pireos 138 & Andronikou, Gazi Tel: 210.345.3111, benaki.gr Byzantine Museum Vas. Sofias 22, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.721.1027 Hellenic Cosmos Foundation of the Hellenic world Pireos 254, Tavros. Tel: 212.254.0000. hellenic-cosmos.gr Frissiras Vlassis Museum of Contemporary European Art Monis Asteriou 3-7, Plaka, Tel: 210.323.4678 frissirasmuseum.com Goulandris Foundation Museum of Cycladic Art Neofytou Douka 4, Athens .Tel: 210.722.8321 cycladic.gr Herakleidon Herakleidon 16, Thissio, Tel: 210-346.1981. herakleidon-art.gr Ilias Lalaounis Jewellery Museum Karyatidon & Kallisperi 12, Makrygianni, Acropolis. Tel: 210.922.7260, lalaounis.com Jewish Museum Nikis 39, Plaka. Tel: 210.322.5582. jewishmuseum.gr Kerameikos Museum Ermou 148, Monastiraki, Tel: 210.346.3552.

National Archaeological Museum Patission 44, Athens, Tel: 210.821.7724 National Gallery and Alexandros Soutsos Museum Vas. Konstantinou 50, Athens.

Tel: 210.723.5857, 210.723.5937 Numismatic Museum Panepistimiou 12, Athens.

Tel: 210.363.5953, nma.gr The Acropolis Museum Dionysiou Areopagitou Street, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.924.1043, theacropolismuseum.gr The National Art Gallery and Alexander Soutzos Museum Michalakopoulou 1 - Vas. Constantinou 1, Athens, Tel: 210-7235857 Allou Fun Park Kifissou & Petrou Ralli, Ag. Ioannis Rentis, Tel: 210.425.6999, allou.gr Children’s Museum Kydathinaeon 14, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.2995.

Goulandris Museum of Natural History Levidou 13, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.801.5870, gnhm.gr Greek Folk Art Museum Daily Karaghiozis puppet shows!

Kydathinaeon 17, Plaka, Tel: 210.322.9031 Museum of Children’s Art Kodrou 9, Plaka, Tel: 210.331.2621 childrensartmuseum.gr Summit The Wall Sport Climbing Center Ag. Athanasiou 12, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.0093, summit.gr Westin Kids Club Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni, Tel: 210.890.2000 http://www.westinathens.com/en/westin_kids_club/

Just for kids

Galleries

A. Antonopoulou Art Aristofanous 20, Psyrri Tel: 210.321.4994 Artzone 42 42 Vas. Konstantinou, Athens, Tel: 210 725 9549 Astrolavos Dexameni Xanthippou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.4342 Astrolavos ArtLife Irodotou 11, Kolonaki Tel: 210.722.1200 Athens Art Gallery Glykonos 4, Dexameni Sq., Athens, Tel: 210 721 3938 Bernier/Eliades Gallery Eptachalkou 11, Thissio, Tel: 210.341.3935 (The) Breeder Gallery Iasonas 45, Metaxurgeio, Tel: 210.331.7527 Ekfrasi Gallery Valaoritou 9a,Tel: 210 360 7598 Eleni Marneri Galerie Lebessi 5-7& Porinou 16, Acropolis Tel: 210.8619.488 EMST National Museum of Contemporary Art Vas. Georgiou B 17 - 19 & Rigilis Athens, Tel: 210 9242 111-3 Gagosian Gallery Merlin 3, Athens, Tel: 210 364 0215 K-Art Gallery Sina 54, Athens, Tel: 211.401.3877 Kalfayan Gallery Haritos 11, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.721.7679 Kourd Gallery Kassiani 2-4, Athens, Tel: 210.642.6573 Skoufa Gallery Skoufa 4, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.360.3541 Stavros Mihaliaras Art 260 Kifissias & Diligianni, Kifissia Tel: 210.623.0928 Thanassis Frisssiras Gallery Kriezotou 7, Athens, Tel: 210. 364.0288 The Art Foundation (TAF) Normanou 5, Monastiraki, Tel: 210.323.8757 The Eynard Mansion Aghiou Konstantinou 20 & Menandrou, Athens, Tel: 210 322 1335 Titanium Yiayiannos Vas. Konstantinou 44, Pangrati, Tel: 210.729.7644 Xippas Gallery Sofokleous 53D, Athens, Tel: 210 331 9333

visiting. Technopolis (Gazi) a 19th century gas factory turned major cultural centre for performing arts and installation works.

Pireos 100 & Ermou, Gazi. Tel: 210.346.1589.

Hadrian’s Arch a Roman arch that marked the boundary of ancient Athens and the new city. Located at the corner of Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues. Lykavittos Hill is the highest point in Athens. Take the teleferique from the top of Ploutarchou St. Odeon of Herod Atticus built in 161 AD, this is where the Athens Festival takes place. Accessible for €1.50 and open daily from 8:30am. Panathenian Stadium “Kalimarmaro”was the site of the first modern Olympics in 1896. Located at Vassileos Konstantinou and Agras, across from the National Garden. Pnyx Hill here, for the first time in history, every citizen could vote, giving Pnyx the name the “birthplace of democracy”. Close by is the beautiful Old Observatory. Presidential Palace formerly the Royal Palace, this building is used by the President of Greece to host dignitaries. Irodou Attikou Street. Stoa of Attalos shopping arcade built in the 2nd century BC and totally reconstructed in the 1950s. Tues-Sun 8:30am-3pm. Admission to the Agora and museum €3.50. Adrianou 24. Tel: 210.321.0185 Syntagma (Constitution Square) is the heart of the city and the best spot for new visitors to orient themselves. The Evzones, dressed in traditional uniforms, guard the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in front of the Parliament. The changing-of-the-guard ceremony takes place every hour. Temple of Olympian Zeus once the largest temple in ancient Greece, its ruins lie just behind Hadrian's Arch. Mon-Sun 8am-7:30pm. €2.00. Vas. Olgas and Amalias Avenues, Tel: 210.922.6330. Theatre of Dionysus built in the 5th century BC is where the plays of Aristophanes, Euripides, Aeschylus and Sophocles were first performed.

Tower of Winds the octagonal tower, representing the eight directions of the wind, was built in the 1st century BC by the Syrian astronomer Andronicus. Mon-Sun 8am-7pm. Just east of the Ancient Agora.

Tel: 10.324.5220.

Museums

Tel: 210.322.9705

Cultural venues

ASSOCIATION OF GUIDES

Zoumboulakis Gallery Kolonaki Square 20, Kolonaki Tel: 210.360.8278 Zoumboulakis Gallery Kriezotou 6, Syntagma, Tel: 210.363.4454

Sites Theatres

ORGANISED TOURS

insider athens | December & January 2015 63

partner hotels ARION RESORT & SPA

ATHENS HILTON

COCO-MAT HOTEL NAFSIKA

DIVANI PALACE ACROPOLIS

The legendary beauty resort is part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts.

Breathtaking views of the Saronic Gulf, elegant and sophisticated décor in all 123 rooms and suites, private swimming pools and beaches, spa and gourmet restaurants.

Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni.

Tel: 210.890.2000

508 renovated rooms, two pools, banquet rooms restaurants, convention facilities, business centre & spa. The rooftop Galaxy bar has gorgeous city views.

Vas. Sofias 46, Kesariani.

Tel: 210.728.1000

Located in Kifissia, the hotel offers an unforgettable experience thanks to COCO-MAT‘s unique sleep systems in its 22 guest rooms, power breakfast, bike rids and herb garden.

Pellis 6, Kifissia. Tel: 210.801.8027

Located at the base of the Acropolis and close to Plaka. Pool with bar, roof garden restaurant with Acropolis view.

Parthenonos 19-25 Makrigianni, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.928.0100

ATHENAEUM INTERCONTINENTAL ATHENS

ATHENS LEDRA HOTEL

Crowne plaza

GRANDE BRETAGNE

543 rooms with renovated Deluxe rooms and suites. Dedicated business centre facilities and 3.500 m2 of extensive & flexible meeting space. New I-Spa and renovated gym. Award winning restaurants.

Syngrou 89-93, Neos Kosmos.

Tel: 210.920.6000

314 deluxe guest rooms, 18 suites.

Rooftop swimming pool and bar, health club, Polynesian - Tepanyiaki Restaurant, Quona Qai and sports bar.

Syngrou 115, Neos Kosmos.

Tel: 210.930.0000

Newly renovated, at a very convenient location attracts both business and leisure travellers. Amenities include restaurant, bar, rooftop swimming pool, conference and business facilities, garage parking.

Michalakopoulou 50, Athens.

Tel: 210.727.8000

This city landmark is part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts. All 265 rooms and 56 suites are decorated with original artwork and antiques. Reception areas, ballrooms, roof garden with Acropolis view. Luxury spa, indoor and outdoor pools.

Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.333.0000

ATHENIAN CALLIRHOE HOTEL

CIVITEL ATTIK

DIVANI APOLLON PALACE & SPA

Holiday Inn Attica Avenue

66 state-of the-art rooms, 15 executive rooms and 3 suites. The acclaimed Etrusco Restaurant serves top quality Mediterranean cuisine.

Kallirois 32 & Petmeza, Neos Kosmos.

Tel: 210.921.5353

A tranquil first-class business, sports and family hotel set in the leafy green suburb of Maroussi, with a swimming pool, conference facilities and spacious restaurant with terrace.

Eptalofou 13 – 15, Maroussi. Τel: 210.610.1000

Located seaside with a magnificent view of the Saronic Gulf. All rooms with balconies and sea views. Indoor and outdoor pools, boutiques, beauty parlor, business centre and spa.

Ag. Nikolaou 10 & Iliou, KavouriVouliagmeni. Tel: 210.891.1100

New five-star property on Attica Avenue linking Athens with the international airport. State-of-the art conference facilities, restaurant, two bars, pool and fitness center.

40.2 km Attica Road, between exits 17 & 18, Spata. Tel: 210.668.9000

ATHENS ELECTRA PALACE HOTEL

CIVITEL OLYMPIC

DIVANI CARAVEL

Holiday Suites

Located in historic Plaka beneath the Acropolis. Facilities include bar, restaurant, spa area with indoor swimming pool, business centre, garden and underground parking.

N. Nikodimou 18-20, Plaka.

Tel: 210.337.0000

Right across the Olympic Stadium, its Superior Rooms and Junior Suites are fitted with modern amenities, from free minibar to free wifi internet access and interactive tv.

Kifissias 2A & Pantanassis, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.680.1900

Situated close to major tourist attractions with, rooftop restaurant and swimming pool.

Vas. Alexandrou 2, Kesariani.

Tel: 210.720.7000

Elegant, all-suite hotel offering high standard accommodation. Each suite provides guests with a separate living room and kitchenette.

Arnis 4, Ilissia.

Tel: 210.727.8000

64 insider athens | December & January 2015

partner hotels KEFALARI SUITES

METROPOLITAN

Royal Olympic

THEOXENIA PALACE HOTEL

Turn-of-the-century hotel in Kifissia, part of YES! Hotels.Themed suites with modern facilities.

Pentelis 1, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.623.3333

Beautifully renovated property with views of the sea and the Acropolis. Ten minutes from central Athens, the port of Piraeus and main exhibition centers.

Syngrou Av. 385, P. Faliro.

Tel: 210.947.1000

Near the Acropolis Museum. 265 rooms and 45 unique Panorama Suites, overlooking the Temple of Zeus and the Acropolis. Pool, business center, convention and banquet facilities. Roof Garden Restaurant/Bar “Ioannis”. 28-34, Ath. Diakou Str., Acropolis Tel: 210.928.8400

In an elegant neoclassical building, this hotel has a restaurant, gym, sauna and outdoor pool. Business centre, internet & conference facilities.

Filadelfeos 2, Kifissia.

Tel: 210.623.3622

KING GEORGE

NEW

SEMIRAMIS

THE MARGI

Situated in the heart of the city, it’s 102 guest rooms and suites are elegantly furnished and natural wood floors. Meeting & Conference spaces, restaurants with panoramic views. Vas. Georgiou A’ 3.

Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.322.2210

Designed by the Campana brothers, NEW, the latest venture of YES! Hotels has 79 luxury rooms, including 18 Studios and 6 Junior Suites. NEW Taste, is the Hotel’s innovative restaurant concept.

Filellinon 16, Syntagma.

Tel: 210.3273000

YES! Hotel designed by Karim Rashid.

51 luxury rooms, 4 suites and 6 poolside bungalows. Ultra-trendy bar-restaurant.

Harilaou Trikoupi 48, Kefalari-Kifissia.

Tel: 210.628.4400

Boutique hotel with 90 spacious rooms and suites and great views to the sea and pine forests. Baku Restaurant offers a unique dining experience while Malabar and the Lobby lounge are perfect for a glass of champagne.

Close to the lake, beach and tennis courts.

Litous 11, Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.892.9000

LIFE GALLERY

NJV athens plaza

SOFITEL ATHENS AIRPORT

THE WESTIN ATHENS

Modern architecture finds its expression in a minimalist designed building with discreet swimming pools, Zen gardens and ethnic elements. The hotel offers 29 spacious, luxury rooms, including 3 art studios and 2 suites and a spa and fitness centre.

Thiseos Avenue 103, Ekali. Tel: 211.106.7400

Boutique-style hotel with 182 rooms including 23 suites with breathtaking views of the Acropolis, ideally located in the heart of the business and shopping district within walking distance of Plaka. 2, Vas.Georgiou A’ St, Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210 3352400

Airport hotel. Executive floor, business center and conference facilities. Two bars and two restaurants. Health club and covered swimming pool.

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, Spata. Tel: 210.354.4000

Part of the Astir Palace Complex with 162 guest rooms and suites and views of the Saronic Gulf. Sea view lounges, trendy bars, fusion and Mediterranean cuisine restaurants and private gazebos by an Olympic-sized pool.

Apollonos 40, Vouliagmeni. Tel: 210.890.2000

MELIÁ ATHENS

NOVOTEL

ST. GEORGE LYCABETTUS HOTEL

TITANIA HOTEL

Located in the heart of Athens with 136 luxury rooms, spacious dining areas, a modern health club and views of historic monuments.

Chalkokondili 14 & 28th Octovriou, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.332.0100

Located in the center of Athens. Two Bars/Restaurants at outdoor Rooftop Pool & lobby area, play area, gym, free indoor parking, free Wi-Fi and panoramic view from the Roof Garden.

4-6 Michail Voda Street, Vathis Square.

Tel: 210.820.0700

Located in the upper part of Kolonaki, not far from the Lycabettus (Lykavittos) funicular railway. Excellent restaurant, Le Grand Balcon. Rooftop swimming pool.

Kleomenous 2, Dexamenis Square, Kolonaki. Tel: 210.741.6000

Located in the heart of the historical and commercial center. The recently refurbished suites and rooms combine style with comfort. Awarded Gourmet Restaurant “Olive Garden”, underground garage, fitness center. Panepistimiou 52, Omonoia, Tel: 210.332600

insider athens | December & January 2015 65

partner hotels TwentyOne

Herodion

SANTORINI

COSTA NAVARINO The Westin Resort Costa Navarino

MYSTIQUE

A five minute walk to Plaka. 90 guest rooms, meeting facilities and a lovely atrium bar-coffee shop.

Rovertou Galli 4, Makrigianni.

Tel: 210.923.6832

Inspired by old Messinian mansions, its 445 deluxe rooms, suites, 123 with private infinity pools, offer access to an extensive common pool areas, and reflect Westin’s soothing aesthetic.

Navarino Dunes Costa Navarino, Pilos Messinia, Tel: 27230.95000

Mystique is an 18 villa hotel, designed by Frank Le Fevbre.

Mystique, Oia. Tel. 22860.71114

AVA HOTEL & SUITES

HOTEL ELECTRA

The Romanos, a Luxury Collection Resort

The Tsitouras Collection Hotel

Luxurious apartments and suites in Plaka. Magnificent views of the Acropolis, Hadrian’s Arch and Zeus Temple. Short walk to Syntagma.

Lysikratous 9-11, Plaka.

Tel: 210.325.9000

Within walking distance from all archaeological sites, business and commercial districts. Includes bar, restaurant, lobby and meeting areas.

Ermou 5, Syntagma Sq. Tel: 210.337.8000

289 exquisitely appointed rooms and 32 suites with individual infinity pools.

Traditional Greek design with contemporary touches.

Navarino Dunes Costa Navarino, Pilos Messinia, Tel: 27230.96000

Art and hospitality are graciously combined in the unique backdrop of a dramatic landscape.

Firostefani, Santorini Tel: 22860.23747

amarilia hotel

PERISCOPE HOTEL

A member of YES! Hotels. Modern design and simple architectural charm.

16 ergonomically designed rooms and 5 loft suites. “21” Bar Restaurant for indoor and outdoor dining.

Kolokotroni 21, Kifissia Tel: 210.623.3521

A CATEGORY

evia

VEDEMA

THERMAE SYLLA wellness hotel

An excellent choice for business and leisure travellers. 100 renovated rooms and suites with great sea views, meeting and banqueting facilities, outdoor swimming pool.

Ag. Nikolaou 13 Vouliagmeni.

Tel. 210 8990391

17 rooms, 4 junior suites and a super-lux penthouse suite. Part of YES! Hotels.

Haritos 22, Kolonaki.

Tel: 210.729.7200

Fresh Hotel

Philippos

Voted one of the ten best spas in the world, it has 101 rooms, 7 Suites and 1 presidential suite with an incredible sea view. 2 restaurants offer traditional Mediterranean cuisine Posidonos 2, Edipsos, Evia. Tel. 22260.60100

Vedema has 45 rooms converted from a 100 year old neo-classical captain’s house and a private swiming pool for all the suites. Vedema, Megalohori.

Tel: 22860.81796

PATMOS

SYROS

Patmos Aktis Suites & Spa

Situated in the heart of old Athens within walking distance of the Plaka. Enjoy the Orange Bar, rooftop restaurant and pool.

Sophocleous 26 & Klisthenous, Omonoia.

Tel: 210.524.8511

Recently refurbished, all 50 rooms are well-appointed and comfortable. Good value for money.

Mitseon 3, Acropolis.

Tel: 210.922.3611-4

66 insider athens | December & January 2015

A 5-star luxury hotel situated only a few steps from Grikos beach. Considered possibly the best located hotel in Patmos.

Patmos, Grikos Bay. Tel: 22470.32800

VILLA SELENA

A luxurious five-star boutique hotel with suitably equipped rooms and suites to ensure a comfortable stay. The spacious terrace with a panoramic view is ideal for breakfast or drinks Tel. 22810 86007, www.villaselena.eu

instant access is now

at your fingertips.

5

in languages

Insider gives you an optimized search feature for the latest in art and entertainment, food and drink and film listings. All the buzz, all the news, all the action PLUS all the Insider articles.

Now just a click away.

www.insider-magazine.gr

AUDIOVISUAL OTE video conference service 7.30am-10pm. Patission 85.

Tel: 210.883.8578, 210.822.0399

Commercial Office spaces Regus Tel: 210 727 9000 Global Business Services Tel: 210.876.4876 Kifissias Ave. 90, Maroussi

COURIER SERVICES

ACS Asklipiou 25, Kryoneri Tel: 210.819.0000 DHL Tel: 210.989.0000 Express City S. Trikoupi 71, Athens, Tel: 210.821.9959 Geniki Taxydromiki Kifissou 14, Renti, Tel: 210.485.1100 Speedex Seneka 24, 15klm Athinon-Lamias, Kifissia Tel: 801.110.0011 UPS 4klm Peanias-Markopoulou Av., Koropi Tel: 210.998.4000

Driving Schools in English Trochokinisi Driving School 28th Oktovriou 126, Ambelokipi, Thessaloniki Tel: 231 072 9092 Driving School Highway Amfitheas and Ag. Triados 30, 175 64 P. Faliro, Tel: 210.988.8098, 699.772.2777 Vlachos Bros 25th Martiou 20, Peristeri; Xenofodos 17, Peristeri; Afroditis 39, Ilion Tel: 210.574.4895, 210.576.9190

Relocation Agencies Allied Pickfords Mourouzi 7, Athens Tel: 210.610.4494 Athens Relocation Centre Zakynthou 10, Glyfada Tel: 210.965.0697 Attica Movers Syngrou Ave. 19, Neos Kosmos, Tel: 210 922 7221 Celebrity International Movers Kapodistriou Ave. 102, Nea Ionia Tel: 210 272 0106 Corporate Relocations Athens Ag. Saranta 32, Nea Erithrea Tel: 210.800.3510 Orphee Beinoglou 27th km Old National Road AthensKorinth Location Elefsinia, Elefsina Tel: 210.946.6100 Octopus Relocation Services Ygeias 7, Marina Zeas, Tel: 210.459.9530

MISSED THESE GREAT ISSUES?

35.000 readers get the best of Greece each month.

Subscribe to Insider and never miss another issue! send us an e-mail at: subscriptions@insider-magazine.gr or give us a call at: 210.729.8634

68 insider athens | December & January 2015

TRANSLATIONS / INTERPRETING Global Business Services Kifisias 90, Maroussi, Tel: 210.876.4876 IBS - International Business Services Michalakopoulou 29, Kaissariani Tel: 210.724.5541

Travel Agencies Travel Plan Christou Lada 3, Athens Tel: 210.333.300, www.travelplan.gr Amphitrion Kyprou 46 & Ploutarhou, Dafni Tel: 210.900.6000, www.amphitrionholidays.gr TravelPlanet24 Karagiorgi Servias 4, Syntagma Tel: 211 107 9684, www.travelplanet24.com Mid-east Travel Vas Sofias 105-107, Ampelokipoi Tel: Tel: 211.211.8888, www.mideast.gr

Embassies Cultural Institutes

Business services

useful information

French Institute Sina 31, 10680 Athens Tel: 210.339.8600 Hellenic American Union Massalias 22, 10680 Athens, Tel: 210.368.0900 British Council Kolonaki Square 17 106 73 Athens Tel: 210.369.2333 Instituto Cervantes Mitropoleos 23, 105 57 Athens Tel: 210.363.4117 Goethe Institut Omirou 14-16, 100 33 Athens Tel: 210.366.1000 Onassis Cultural Centre Syngrou Ave. 107-109, 117 45 Athens, Tel: 213.017.8000 Instituto Italiano di Cultura Patission (28 Oktovriou) 47 Tel: 210.369.2333, 210.524.2646 ALBANIA Vekiareli 7, Filothei, Tel: 210.687.6200 ALGERIA Vas. Constantinou 14, Athens Tel: 210.756.4191-2 ARGENTINA Vas. Sophias 59, Athens Tel: 210.724.4158 ARMENIA K. Palaiologou 95, Athens, Tel: 210.683.1130, 210.683.1145 AUSTRALIA Kifisias & Alexandras, Ampelokipoi Tel: 210.870.4000 AUSTRIA Vas. Sofias Av. 4, Athens, Tel: 210.725.7270

AZERBAiJAN Skoufa 10, Athens, Tel: 210.363.2721 BELGIUM Sekeri 3, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.360.0314 BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA Hatzikosta 3, Athens, Tel: 210.641.0788 BRAZIL Vassilis Sofias 23, Athens Tel: 210.721.3039 BULGARIA Stratigou Kallari 33A, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.8105 CANADA Ioanni Gennadiou 4, Athens, Tel: 210.727.3400 CHILE Rigilis 12, Athens, Tel: 210.729.2647 CHINA Krinon 2A, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.672.3282 CROATIA Tzavella 4, N. Psychico, Tel: 210.677.7033 CUBA Sofokleous 5, Filothei, Tel: 210.685.5550 CYPRUS Xenofontos 2A, Athens, Tel: 210.373.4800 CZECH REPUBLIC G. Seferi 6, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.671.9701 DENMARK Mourouzi 10, Athens, Tel: 210.725.6440 EGYPT Vas. Sofias 3, Syntagma, Tel: 210.361.8612 ESTONIA Messoghion 2-4, Ampelokipoi, Tel: 210.747.5660 FINLAND Hatziyianni Mexi 5, Athens, Tel: 210.725.5860 FRANCE Vas. Sofias 7, Syntagma, Tel: 210.339.1000 FYROM Papadiamanti 4, P. Psychico.

Tel: 210.674.9585 GEORGIA Ag. Dimitriou 24, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.2186 GERMANY Karaoli & Dimitriou 3, Athens, Tel: 210.728.5111 HUNGARY Karneadou 25, Kolonaki Tel: 210.725.6800 INDIA Kleanthous 3, Mets, Tel: 210.721.6481 INDONESIA Marathonodromon 99, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.2345 IRAN Stratigou Kallari 16, Patisia, Tel: 210.674.1436 IRAQ Mazaraki 4, Psychico, Tel: 210.677.8276 IRELAND Vas. Konstantinou 7, Mets, Tel: 210.723.2405 ISRAEL Marathonodromon 1, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.670.5500 ITALY Sekeri 2, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.361.7260 JAPAN Ethnikis Antistaseos 46, Halandri.

Tel: 210.670.9900 JORDAN Papadiamanti 21. P. Psychico.

Tel: 210.674.4161 Kazakhstan Imittou 122, Papagou Tel: 210.654.7765 KOREA Messoghion 2-4, Athens.

Tel: 210.698.4080

Ambulance Tel: 166 Doctors SOS Tel: 1016.

They will issue an invoice to claim reimbursement from your insurer.

Ipirou 1, Athens.

Duty Pharmacies Call 1434, Also check newspapers for listings.

Emergency Hospitals Tel: 1434 Fire Brigade Tel: 199 Forest Fire Tel: 191 Poison Hotline Tel: 210.779.3777 Police Tel: 100 Tourist Police Tel: 171 Coast Guard Tel:108 Air Police Tel: 210.964.2000

ROAD ASSISTANCE ELPA Tel: 10400 Emergency Service Tel: 104 Express Service Tel: 154 Hellas Service Tel: 1057 Interamerican Tel: 1158

EUROCLINIC PAEDON Lemessou 39-41 & Aharnon 209, Kato Patissia, Tel: 210.869.1900 PAEDON AGIA SOFIA HOSPITAL Mikras Asias and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.746.7000 PAEDON AGLAIA KYRIAKOU HOSPITAL Livadias 3 and Thivon, Goudi. Tel: 210.772.6000 & 1535

Private Hospitals Advanced Medical Services, Symmetria Building Ethnikis Antistaseos 66, Halandri.

Tel: 210.677.3573 www.symmetria.gr CENTRAL CLINIC OF ATHENS Asklipiou St. 31, Athens, Emergency number 1169 or Tel: 210.367.4000 www.centralclinic.gr EUROCLINIC Diagnostic, surgical and treatment centre.

Athanasiadou 9, Athens, (near Mavili Sq.), Tel: 210.641.6600 EURODENTICA Specialized dental care Patision 150, Athens, Tel: 210.866.3367-8 Alamanas 3, Maroussi, Athens, Tel: 210.619.5760-1, El. Venizelou 162, Kallithea, Athens, Tel: 210.956.5365 YGEIA Kifissias & E. Stavrou 4, Maroussi, Tel: 210.686.7000, www.ygeia.gr IATRIKO KENTRO (ATHENS MEDICAL CENTER) Areos 36, P. Faliro.

Tel: 210.989.2100-20. Distomou 5-7, Maroussi. Tel: 210.619.8100 METROPOLITAN HOSPITAL Ethnarou Makariou 9 & El. Venizelou, N. Faliro. Tel: 210.480.9000 www.metropolitan-hospital.gr IASO Kifissias 37-39, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.618.4000 MITERA Kifissias & E. Stavrou 6, Maroussi. Tel: 210.686.9000

public Hospitals ASKLEPIEION HOSPITAL Vas. Pavlou 1, Voula. Tel: 210.895.8301-4 EVANGELISMOS Ypsilantou 45-47, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.720.1000 KAT HOSPITAL Nikis 2, Kifissia, Tel: 210.628.0000 Specialized trauma unit.

TZANNEIO Afentouli & Tzani, Pireaus, Tel: 210.451.9411-9

PHYSICIANS (ENGLISH SPEAKING) Ioannis Bitzos, MD Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Harilaou Trikoupi 62, Kifissia, Tel: 210.808.0682 A.J. Kanellopoulos, MD Eye Surgeon, Tsoha 17, Athens, Tel: 210.747.2777 Dimitris Linos, MD FACS General Surgeon, Kifissias 227, Kifissia, Tel: 210.612.5001-2 heart & vascular centrE E.N. Deliargyris, MD FACC FSCAI Interventional cardiologist. Southern Athens. Vakchou 2 & Vas. Kostantinou, Tel: 210.897.6276, www.heartline.gr

English media

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Paediatric Hospitals

Newspapers The International New York Times carries the English version of Kathimerini Athens Insider, the bi-monthly magazine for Greece

Radio Athens International Radio 104,4 Good Morning Athens at 10am, english programs at 11am, music programs on weekdays at 9pm, weekends at 1pm. Peiraios 100, Athens, Tel: 210.341.1610

Schools

Greek Language

SWEDEN Vas. Konstantinou 7, Athens, Tel: 210.726.6100 SWITZERLAND Iasiou 2, Evaggelismos, Tel: 210.723.0364-6 TAIWAN Marathonodromon 57, Psychico, Tel: 210.677.5122 Representative office THAILAND Marathorodromon 25 & Kyprou, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.9065 TUNISIA Antheon 2, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.671.7590 TURKEY Vas. Georgiou B’ 8, Athens, Tel: 210.726.3000 UKRAINE Stephanou Delta 4, Filothei, Tel: 210.680.0230 UAE Kifissias Av. 290 & N. Paritsi 2, Tel: .210.677.0220 UK Ploutarchou 1, Athens, Tel: 210.727.2600 USA Vas. Sofias 91, Athens, Tel: 210.721.2951 URUGUAY Menandrou 1, Kifissia, Tel: 210.361.3549 VATICAN Mavili 2, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.3598 VENEZUELA Marathonodromon 19, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.9169 VIETNAM Yakinthon 50, Psychico, Tel. 210.612.8733, 210.675.3080.

Emergencies

KUWAIT Marathonodromon 27, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.3593 LEBANON 6, 25th Martiou, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.675.5873 LIBYA Vyronos 13, P. Psychico, Tel: 210.674.2120 LITHUANIA Vas. Sophias 49, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.4356 LATVIA Vas. Konstantinou 38, Athens Tel. 210.729.4483 LUXEMBOURG Vas. Sofias 23A & Neofitou Vamva 2, Syntagma Tel: 210.725.6400 MALTA V. Sofias 96, Athens, Tel: 210.778.5138 MEXICO Filikis Etaireias Sq. 14, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.729.4780 MOLDAVIA Georgiou Bacu 20, Filothei.

Tel: 210.699.0660 MOROCCO Marathonodromon 5, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.674.4210 NETHERLANDS Vas Konstantinou 5-7, Mets, Tel: 210.725.4900 NIGERIA Dolianis 65, Maroussi, Tel: 210.802.1188 NORWAY Vas. Sofias 23, Kolonaki, Tel: 210.724.6173 PAKISTAN Loukianou 6, Evaggelismos, Tel: 210.729.0122 PALESTINE Giassemion 13, P. Psychico. Tel.: 210.672.6061-3 PANAMA Praxitelous 192 & II Merarchias, Piraeus, Tel: 210.428.6441 PERU Semitelou 2, Athens, Tel: 210.779.2761 PHILIPPINES Antheon 26, P. Psychico.

Tel: 210.672.1837 POLAND Chrysanthemon 22, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.679.7700 PORTUGAL Vas. Sofias 23, Kolonaki Tel: 210.729.0096 / 210.723.6784 QATAR Perikleous 2 & Kifissias Av. 212, N. Psychico, Tel: 210.725.5031 ROMANIA Emm. Benaki 7, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.8875 RUSSIA Nikiforos Lytra 28, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.672.5235 SAUDI ARABIA Palaiologhou 2 & Agias Annis, Halandri, Tel: 210.671.6911 SERBIA Vas. Sophias 106, Athens, Tel: 210.777.4344 SINGAPORE Aigialias 17, Paradissos Amaroussiou. Tel: 210.684.5072 SLOVAK REPUBLIC G. Seferi 4, P. Psychico. Tel: 210.677.1980 SLOVENIA Kifissias Av. 280 & Dimokratias 1, N. Psychico, Tel: 210.672.0090-091 SOUTH AFRICA Kifissias 60, Maroussi.

Tel: 210.610.6645 SPAIN Dionysiou Areopagitou 21, Plaka, Tel: 210.921.3123

Health

useful information

The Athens Center 48 Archimidous Street, Mets, Athens 11636, Greece Tel: 210.701.5242 CELT Athens 77 Academias Street, 106 78 Athens, Greece, Tel: 210.330.1455 Greek House Dragoumi 7, 145 61 Kifissia, Tel: 210.808.5186 Hellenic American Union 22 Massalias str., 106 80 Athens, Tel: 210.368.0900 Omilo Greek Language And Culture Panagi Tsaldari 13 (4th floor), 15122 Maroussi, Tel: 210.612.2706

insider athens | December & January 2015 69

useful information

Universities University of Indianapolis Ipitou 9, Athens, Tel: 210.323.6647 DEREE Gravias 6, Aghia Paraskevi, Tel: 210.600.9800

Citizen’s Rights Ombudsman: 5 Hatziyiannis Mexis (near the Hilton Hotel), Tel: 210 72 89 640 ALBA Graduate Business School Athinas Ave. & Areos 2A, Vouliagmeni Tel: 210.896.4531 American University of Athens Kifisias & Sochou 4, Neo Psichiko, Tel: 210.725.9301 Business College of Athens Tatoiou 2 & Othonos 77, Kifissia Tel: 210.808.8008

70 insider athens | December & January 2015

English kindergartens The Cottage Kindergarten Psaron 74, Halandri Tel: 210.682.7629 Early Learning Rizountos 53, Elliniko Tel: 210.961.8763 Hopscotch International Kindergarten Ag. Triandos 93, Vari Tel: 210.965.3985 Learning Steps Ath. Diakou 81 & Ydras 5, Kifissia, Tel: 210.620.5818 Melina’s Kindergarten Harilaou Trikoupi 16, Kifissia Tel: 210.801.2719 Peek-a-boo PreSchool Vougliameni Tel: 210.967.1970 Peter Pan Lakonias 4-6, Voula Tel: 210.895.9654 Prince Allen The English Nursery School Lysimahou 8, Vari Tel: 210.965.6800

German kindergartens

Money

International Schools

St Catherine's British Embassy School Sofoklis Venizelou 77, Lykovrissi Tel: 210.282.9750 St. Lawrence College Anemon St, Koropi Tel: 210.891.7000 American Community Schools of Athens Aghias Paraskevis Ave. 129, Halandri, Tel: 210.639.3200 Campion School Aghias Ioulianis, Pallini Tel: 210.607.1700 Byron College Filolaou 7, Gerakas Tel: 210.604.7722 International School of Athens Xenias and Artemidos, Kifissia, Tel: 210.623.3888 Lycée Franco-Hellénique Eugène Delacroix Chlois & Trikalon, Ag. Paraskevi Tel: 211.300.9121 Scuola Statale Italiana Odos Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia Tel: 210.228.2720 German School in Athens Homatianou & Ziridi, Maroussi Tel: 210.619.9261 Greek German School 25 Martiou & Vernardou, Vrylissia Tel: 210.682.0566

Weather Attica, Tel: 148, www.hnms.gr

Italian Institut Library Patision 47, Omonia National Library Tzavella 25, Syntagma, Tel: 210.382.0657 Nordic Library 7 Kavalotti St, Makrigianni Tel: 210.924.9210, 210.924.9211

LOST OR STOLEN CREDIT CARDS

Post offices operate weekdays 8am-2pm. The main post offices in Athens are located at SYNTAGMA SQUARE and OMONIA SQUARE at Aeolou 100 and open weekdays 7:30am-8pm, Sat 7:30am-2pm, and Sun 9am-1:30pm.

O mikros Antonis Barbayiannis, Pallini, Tel: 210.603.2527

Italian kindergartens Scuola maternal italiana de Atene Mitsaki 18, Ano Patissia, Tel: 210.202.0274 Il Mulino magico Troados 23, Ag Paraskevi, Tel: 210.600.3148 American School of Classical Studies Blegen Souedias 54, Athens Tel: 210.723.6313 Athens College Library Stephanou Delta, P. Psychico Tel: 210.679.8100 Benakeios Library Anthimou Gazi 2, Athens Tel: 210.367.1027 British Council Library Kolonaki Sq. 17, Kolonaki Tel: 210.363.3211/5 French Institute Library 31 Sina St, Athens Tel: 210.362.4301 German Archaeological Institute Library Pheidiou 1, Athens Tel: 210.362.0270 Goethe Institute Library Omirou 14-16, Athens Tel: 210.360.8111 Hellenic American Union Greek Library 22 Masalias St (7th floor), Athens, Tel: 210.362.9886

AMERICAN EXPRESS Tel: 210.324.4975 DINERS CLUB Tel: 210.929.0200 MASTERCARD Tel: 00.800.1188.703.03 VISA Tel: 00.800.1163.803.04

Country Code: 30 City Code: 210 international calls first dial 00, then the country code.

To call from a Public pay- phone buy a phone card at the kiosks.

Prepaid mobile phone cards (SIM cards) are available for €5 at kiosks, post offices, mini markets and mobile phone company stores.

Phone

Water Supply & Sewage (EYDAP) In case of water cut: Tel: 1202, www.eydap.gr

Public Services Administration Information Center (paperwork assistance) on weekdays 8am-3pm (KEP): Tel: 177, ww.kep.gov.gr

Au petit bonheur 50 Iraklitou, Glyfada, Tel: 210 9658 207 Les Alouettes Spartis 36 & Harilaou Trikoupi, Kifissia Tel: 210 80 11 570 Mary Poppins 4, Kodrou, Filothei, Tel: 210.677.3803 Paramythia Cycladon 11, Glyka Nera, Tel: 210.600.3196 Play and Learn Kassaveti 22, Kifissia, Tel: 210.801.1428

Libraires

Public Power Corporation (DEI) In case of power failure: Tel: 210, 523 9939 www.dei.gr

Greek Manpower Employment Organization (OAED) www.oaed.gr, Tel: 210 99 89 000

International Kindergartens

Road Assistance ELPA: 104

Social Security & Health insurance (IKA) www.ika.gr

Post

French kindergartens Telephone & Internet Services (OTE) New tel: 138, Tel. (defective): 129 OTE customer service: 134 International call information (English, French & German): 169 www.ote.gr

!

advertise in our listings, and reach thousands of customers email us at

ads@insider-magazine.gr

Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport, Spata.

Tel: 210.353.0000, 210.353.1000. www.aia.gr.

24 HOUR VIP TRANSPORT SERVICE

Car rental

WSW Skycap Services at Athens Airport provides Meet & Greet, Baggage Hauling and Transport Service.

Tel: 210.353.0100 www.skycap.gr For info about the public bus lines please check our section Getting Around Ada Rent-a-Car Tel: 210.322.0087 Arena Tel: 210.894.6883, 210.614.7400 Auto Union Tel: 210.602.0162 Avis Tel: 210.322.4951 Budget Tel: 210.921.4771-3 Europcar Tel: 210.924.8810-8 Hertz Tel: 210.998.2000 Michael Stamou Luxury Rentals Tel: 210.922.2442/43 Sixt Rent-a-Car Tel: 210.570.6895, 210.922.0171

LIMOUSINES AAA Royal Prestige Tel: 210.988.3221 Astra Limousine Service Tel: 210.922.0333/807.9996 Convecta Travel Agency & Limousine Services Tel: 210.322.5090 Limousines Kacaya Tel: 210.323.4120

Public transport

Airport

Airlines

Aegean Tel: 801.11.20000 Air France KLM Tel: 210.998.0222 Air Malta Tel: 210.965.2300-22 Alitalia Tel: 210.998.8888 American Tel: 210.361.3373 Air Taxis (Helicopter and plane charters) Tel: 210.938.4149 British Airways Tel: 210.353.0453 Continental Tel: 210.353.4312 Cyprus Airways Tel: 210.353.4100 Easy Jet Tel: 211.198.0013 El Al Tel: 210.934.1500-1 Emirates Tel: 210.933.3400 Etihad Tel: 210.324.1010 Iberia www.iberia.com/gr Lufthansa Tel: 210.617.5200 Olympic Airways Tel: 801.801.0101 Qatar Airways Tel: 210.950.8700 Singapore Tel: 210.994.2567 Swiss / Crossair Tel: 210.617.5320 Tunisair Tel: 210.969.6496 Turkish Tel: 210.988.5700

Combined tickets for metro, buses and trolleys (€1,40) are available from metro stations and central ticket booths, valid within 90 mins of validation for all public transport - except the airport service, which costs 8€.

EXPRESS BUS from/to airport

X93 Kifisos Intercity Bus Station - Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to the intercity bus (KTEL) terminals KIFISOS and LIOSION X95 Syntagma – Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to Syntagma Square at Athens city center.

X96 Peiraias – Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to Piraeus central passenger port terminals.

X97 Dafni Metro Station – Athens Airport Express.

Direct Connection to DAFNI metro station. Tickets available at the Arrivals Hall; validate on board. Fare is €5 One-way travel time estimates**: X93 (65’ min), X95 (70’ min), X96 (90’ min), X97 (70’ min).

For further information dial 185 or visit www.oasa.gr, www.ametro.gr. For info on trains visit www.proastiakos.gr

HELLENIC RAILWAYS ORGANIsATION Karolou 1. Tel: 210.529.7002, www.ose.gr

ATHENS METRO Line 1 (Piraeus-Kifissia) 5am-midnight, Line 2 (Agios Antonios-Agios Dimitrios) 5.30am-midnight, Line 3 (Egaleo-

Doukissis Plakentias) 5.30am-midnight Line 3 (Egaleo-Airport) 5.30am-22.52pm and 06.30am-23.30pm.

The last itinerary is 2 hours later on Friday and Saturday night than it is during the week. www.ametro.gr

tram Tram itineraries are only from Syntagma to S.E.F (in Neo Faliro) and from Syntagma to Asklipio Voulas. From Monday to Thursday, trams operate from 5.am until midnight and non-stop from Friday morning to Sunday midnight. www.tramsa.gr

TAXIS from the airport cost about €20 to Syntagma Square, €25 to Piraeus, depending on traffic. Between midnight and 5am double tariff applies.

Note: If you suspect that you have been overcharged, you can call the tourist police 0n 171

Terminal 1: Buses for Igoumenitsa, Ioannina, Kavala, Loutraki, Patra, the Peloponese, and Thessaloniki. Kifissou 100Tel: 210.512.4910-1, www.ktel.org Terminal 2: Buses for Delphi, Evia, Galaxidi, Karpenisi, Katerini, Lamia, Livadia, Thiva and Volos. Liosion 260.

For KTEL itineraries all over Greece call 14505

RADIO TAXI Enotita Tel: 210.645.9000 Ermis Tel: 210.411.5200 Ikarus Tel: 210.515.2800 Kifissia Tel: 210.801.4000 Piraeus Tel: 210.418.2333 Radio Taxi Glyfada Tel: 210.960.5600 There is a booking fee of €2 added to the meter, and a €3,40 + VAT for a pre-arranged meeting. For PET taxis there is an extra charge of €5.

Sea ports

Ferries Ferries run year-round. For information on seasonal schedules contact a travel agent or call the Port Police on 210.422.6000 From the Port of Piraeus Northern and Eastern Aegean Islands: Gates A & B Chios, Ikaria, Lesvos, Samos, Dodecanese Islands: Gate E Kalymnos, Kos Leros, Patmos, Rhodes, Saronic Gulf Islands:

Gates G & E

Aegina, Hydra, Poros, Spetses, Crete: Gate A Aghios Nikolaos, Chania, Iraklio, Kastelli (Kissamos), Rethymno, Cycladic Islands:

Gates B, G & D

Astipalea, Folegandros, Kimolos, Kithnos, Milos, Serifos, Sifnos: Gate B Amorgos, Donoussa, Ios, Iraklia, Koufonissi, Mykonos, Santorini, Schinoussa, Syros, Tinos: Gates G&D Naxos, Paros: Gate G

Superfast Ferries

INTERCITY BUSES

Lavrio Tel: 22920.27711, 22920.22089 Piraeus Tel: 210.422.6000-4 Rafina Tel: 22940.22300, 22940.28888

Sea ports & Ferries

getting around

Daily departures, Greece - Italy: from Patras and Igoumenitsa to Ancona and Bari Head office: 23-125 Syngrou Avenue & 3 Torva Street 11745 Athens.

Tel:210.891.9000 Reservations: Athens: 210.891.9130 Thessaloniki: 2310.560.700, www.superfast.com Hellenic Seaways 210 41 99 000 www.hellenicseaways.gr, Anek Lines www.anek.gr Domestic lines: 210 41 97 420 International lines: 210 41 97 430 Minoan Lines www.minoan.gr Tel: 801 11 75 000

YACHT CHARTERS A1 Yacht Trade Consortium Akti Themistokleous 8, Marina Zeas, Piraeus. Tel: 210.458.7100 Ghiolman Yachts Filellinon 7, Syntagma. Tel: 210.323.3696 Northstar Poseidonos 9 & Achilleos, P. Faliro. Tel: 210.988.4000 PGA Shipping Posidonos 61, P. Faliro.

Tel: 210.985.9400 Seahorse Alkyonidon 83 (Marina), Voula.

Tel: 210.895.2212 Seascape Poseidonos Ave. 29, Alimos.

Tel/Fax: 210.985.8301 Valef Yachts Pl. Chatzikonstanti 2, Piraeus. Tel:210.451.2010 Vernicos Yachts Posidonos 11, Kalamaki.

Tel: 210.985.0122-8

insider athens | December & January 2015 71

K A L E I DOSCOP E

3

4

5

6

1

2

7

A new home for art and science 1. The Herakleidon Museum celebrates its tenth birthday fittingly with the launch of its new annexe on 37, Apostolou Pavlou. 3,4,6. The new annexe officially opened on October 17 with a photography exhibition titled “Metamorphoses of Athens: A Photographic Itinerary 1839-1950,” which shows the transformation of the Greek capital through material from the archive of historian and photography collector Haris Yiakoumis. 7. Panoramic view of Lysikratous square by T’Serstevens, 1904© Yiakoumis Collection / Kallimages, Paris. 2. The flagship venue at 16 Irakleidon is best known for its collection of works by M.C. Escher and Victor Vasarely as well as its education programmes drawing links between mathematics and art and 5. its museum shop. The annexe is a welcome addition to Athens’ rich cultural scene and is a result of the tireless effort of its founders, art collectors Pavlos and Belinda Fyros.

72 insider athens | December & January 2015

insider athens | December & January 2015 73